I used to think cheesecake had to be this complicated project that took hours in the oven and needed special water baths to turn out right. Growing up, my mom would only make it for really special occasions, and even then, it didn’t always work out perfectly.
That’s why this no-bake Greek yogurt jello version has become my go-to dessert. There’s no fussing with the oven temperature or worrying about cracks on top. Just mix everything together, let it chill, and you’ve got something that tastes just like the real deal – minus all the stress.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Yogurt Cheesecake
- Lightning-fast prep – This no-bake dessert comes together in just 10 minutes – perfect for those times when you want something sweet without the wait.
- Health-conscious treat – Made with Greek yogurt and minimal ingredients, this dessert is lower in calories and higher in protein than traditional cheesecake.
- Three ingredients only – You probably already have these basic ingredients in your kitchen, making this an easy last-minute dessert option.
- No baking required – Perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven, or for beginners who aren’t comfortable with baking.
What Kind of Yogurt Should I Use?
Greek yogurt is the star player in this no-bake cheesecake, and you’ve got plenty of options to choose from.
Regular Greek yogurt will give you the richest, creamiest texture thanks to its thick consistency, but fat-free Greek yogurt works just fine if you’re watching your calories.
The most important thing is to make sure you’re using Greek-style yogurt rather than regular yogurt – the extra straining process that Greek yogurt goes through gives it that thick, creamy texture that makes this dessert feel like real cheesecake.
If your yogurt seems a bit too thick, you can always thin it out with a splash of milk to get the perfect consistency.
Options for Substitutions
This simple no-bake treat is pretty flexible with substitutions. Here’s what you can swap:
- Vanilla yogurt: You can use plain Greek yogurt and add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, or try different yogurt flavors like strawberry or honey. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt will give you a thicker, creamier result than regular yogurt.
- Instant cheesecake pudding mix: This is a key ingredient for texture, but you can use vanilla pudding mix instead. For a more natural option, try using 2 tablespoons of cream cheese mixed with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of honey.
- Almond milk: Any milk works here – regular dairy milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. If using coconut milk, use the drinking kind, not the canned version, as it might be too thick.
Storage Instructions
Chill: Your no-bake jello cheesecake needs to stay cold to maintain its perfect texture. Pop it in the fridge in an airtight container, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. The yogurt base means it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days when the flavors are at their peak.
Make Ahead: This is a great dessert to prep in advance! You can make it the night before your gathering and let it set overnight in the fridge. Just keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing any other food odors.
Not Recommended: I don’t recommend freezing this cheesecake since the yogurt-based filling can become grainy and separate when thawed. It’s best to make only what you plan to eat within a few days.
No-Bake Greek Yogurt Jello Cheesecake FAQ
Why does my cheesecake mixture look lumpy after mixing?
Sometimes the pudding mix can create small lumps when first mixed with yogurt. I find that whisking vigorously for an extra minute or two usually solves this issue. If you still see lumps, let the mixture rest for 5 minutes, then whisk again – the pudding mix will have time to properly dissolve.
Can I add food coloring to this recipe?
Yes, you can add a few drops of food coloring to create fun, colorful variations! I recommend using gel food coloring instead of liquid, as it won’t change the consistency of the mixture. Start with just 1-2 drops and add more until you reach your desired color.
Why isn’t my cheesecake setting up as firm as regular cheesecake?
This no-bake version has a softer, more mousse-like texture than traditional baked cheesecake because it’s yogurt-based. I find that letting it chill for at least 4 hours helps it set to the right consistency. If you want it firmer, you can add an extra 1/2 tablespoon of pudding mix.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0-0 minutes |
| Total Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-8 g
- Fat: 0-3 g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla-flavored yogurt (fat-free or regular, any type works)
- 1 tablespoon instant cheesecake pudding mix
- Optional: stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of almond milk for extra creaminess.
Step 1: Combine Greek Yogurt and Cheesecake Pudding
In a bowl, mix or whisk together the Greek yogurt and cheesecake pudding until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Ensure there are no lumps and the texture is creamy.
Step 2: Add Toppings and Serve
Customize your creation by adding fresh fruit such as berries, banana slices, or mango chunks for added freshness.
Sprinkle with nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Feel free to experiment and add other toppings of your choice.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, creamy treat!