No bake cottage cheesecake is the ultimate dessert hack creamy, rich, and full of flavor, but without the oven or fuss. This healthier take on the classic cheesecake swaps cream cheese for cottage cheese and cashews, giving you a silky smooth, protein-rich filling with just the right amount of tang. If you’re craving something indulgent yet easy, this is the cheesecake you’ll want in your fridge all summer long.
It’s a fresh spin that comes together in minutes and chills to perfection in your freezer—no baking, no water bath, no stress. Just a simple, satisfying treat that fits into real life. Once you taste how creamy this no bake cottage cheesecake is, you’ll never go back to the baked kind.
Table of Contents
A Cozy Twist on Cheesecake with No Bake Simplicity
Why No Bake Wins in a Busy Kitchen
I’ve always had a soft spot for cheesecake. But between naptimes and the general chaos of life, making a baked one? That rarely happens. That’s exactly what made me fall for this no bake cottage cheesecake. It takes all the best parts creamy texture, indulgent taste and skips the oven entirely.
It came to life one sticky afternoon in my small UK kitchen when I couldn’t bring myself to turn on the oven. I had cottage cheese, cashews, dates, and some pantry staples. A quick blend, press, pour and a few hours in the freezer later, I had something that tasted like the cheesecake I grew up with, only lighter and easier.
Rediscovering Cottage Cheese in Desserts
Cottage cheese in a dessert? I know it sounds surprising, but it absolutely works here. It blends effortlessly with cashews for a filling that’s smooth, subtly tangy, and completely satisfying. And with over 20 grams of protein per serving, this no bake cottage cheesecake feels as good as it tastes.
It’s the kind of recipe that surprises people. They ask what’s in it, and when I tell them there’s no cream cheese just cottage cheese and cashews they’re floored. This no bake cottage cheesecake really is proof that dessert can be both nourishing and decadent.

What Makes This No Bake Cottage Cheesecake So Special
Protein‑Rich, Creamy Filling
You’d never guess this cheesecake skips cream cheese entirely. The secret to its rich, velvety texture is a blend of full-fat cottage cheese and soaked cashews. When blended together, they create an ultra-smooth filling that mimics the taste and feel of traditional cheesecake only this one’s packed with over 20 grams of protein per serving. That means you get a dessert that’s just as indulgent but with a feel-good bonus.
Unlike most no bake cheesecakes that rely on whipped topping or cream cheese alone, this one is built for balance. The cottage cheese gives it a tangy base that’s light yet satisfying, while cashews add body and a dairy-free richness that helps it hold together beautifully.
Nutty, Naturally Sweet Crust
For the crust, this no bake cottage cheesecake opts for a nourishing combo of walnuts, almonds, and dates instead of traditional graham crackers. A drizzle of maple syrup binds it all together, while a pinch of salt brings out the natural sweetness of the dates. It’s earthy, slightly chewy, and adds a beautiful contrast to the creamy filling.
If you’re more of a traditionalist, you can swap in a graham cracker crust. But the nut-date version is not only delicious it’s also gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and loaded with healthy fats.
Whether you keep it classic or go sweet and nutty, this crust brings just the right balance to every bite of no bake cottage cheesecake.
How to Make This No Bake Cottage Cheesecake at Home
Building the Perfect Crust
The crust comes together in minutes using just five pantry staples. You’ll need walnuts, almonds, pitted dates, a touch of maple syrup, and a pinch of salt.Toss the walnuts and almonds into a food processor and pulse until they’re finely ground. Add the dates next and blend again until everything starts to come together.
Press the crust firmly into a greased 8-inch springform pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Freeze the crust for a few minutes while you blend the filling. This step not only sets the base but also keeps the crust firm once the filling goes in no soggy bottoms here.
Blending, Freezing, and Serving
To make the filling, combine soaked cashews, full-fat cottage cheese, oat milk, lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt in a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth and thick. The mixture should be creamy not gritty so take your time here. If needed, stop to scrape down the sides and blend again until the texture is silky.
Spoon the filling onto the chilled crust, smooth it out evenly with a spatula, and place it back in the freezer for a minimum of 4 hours. For best results, leave it overnight. When you’re ready to serve, let the cheesecake thaw for 5 to 10 minutes at room temperature to make slicing easier. It holds up beautifully and can even be stored in the freezer for future treats.

Tips, Common Problems with No Bake Cottage Cheesecake
Freeze Time, Sliceability & Storage
The most common issue with a no bake cottage cheesecake is slicing it too soon. You’ll need to freeze this cheesecake for at least 4 hours, though overnight gives the best results. A firm set gives you those clean, bakery-style slices. When ready to serve, leave the cake on the counter for 5 to 10 minutes. This softens the edges just enough for a smooth cut without compromising structure.
Always use a springform pan. It makes removal a breeze and helps keep the cheesecake’s shape intact.
If you’re planning to store leftovers, the freezer is your friend. Wrap individual slices or the whole pan in cling film, then foil, and freeze for up to a month. For short-term storage, the fridge works for 1–2 days, but keep in mind the texture may soften slightly.
Gritty Texture, Nut-Free Swaps & Toppings
A gritty filling usually means the cashews weren’t blended long enough. Use a high-speed blender, and soak the cashews well beforehand (or boil them for 20 minutes). Keep blending until the mixture is completely smooth you shouldn’t feel any graininess.
If you’re avoiding nuts, you can swap the walnut-almond crust for a graham cracker base. But when it comes to the filling, cashews are key. They create the creaminess and stability that hold this no bake cottage cheesecake together. Replacing them can throw off the creaminess and overall flavor.
As for toppings? Go wild. Fresh berries, fruit compote, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of homemade Nutella all work beautifully. For best results, finish with toppings just before bringing it to the table.
A Sweet Ending Without the Oven
This no bake cottage cheesecake is everything a homemade dessert should be simple, satisfying, and made with real ingredients that fit into everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed treat, a lighter twist on a classic, or just a no-fuss dessert that chills while you get on with your day, this cheesecake delivers.
From its creamy, cottage cheese filling to the naturally sweet, nutty crust, every bite feels indulgent without the heaviness of traditional baked versions. It’s a keeper in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours, too.”no bake cottage cheesecake”
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FAQs About No Bake Cottage Cheesecake
Can you use cottage cheese in a no bake cheesecake?
Yes, cottage cheese works beautifully in no bake cheesecakes. When blended with ingredients like cashews, it creates a creamy, smooth filling that rivals traditional cream cheese. It also adds a protein boost and a slight tang, making it perfect for a healthier twist on the classic.
Can I use cottage cheese instead of cream cheese for cheesecake?
Definitely and in this no bake cottage cheesecake, cottage cheese takes center stage. Full-fat versions blend up silky and rich, especially when paired with soaked cashews. It’s a great swap that keeps the dessert creamy without sacrificing flavor or texture.
What are common no bake cheesecake mistakes?
The biggest mistake is not allowing enough time for the cheesecake to set. It needs a full 4 hours in the freezer overnight is best. Another issue is gritty filling, usually from under-blended cashews. Always use a high-speed blender and soak or boil the cashews first for a smooth finish.
How to make simple cheesecake no bake?
Start with a crust made from blended nuts and dates (or graham crackers for a shortcut). Blend cottage cheese, soaked cashews, and sweeteners like maple syrup for the filling. Pour over the crust, freeze, and you’re done. It’s as easy as blend, pour, chill, and serve.

No Bake Cottage Cheesecake – Creamy, Easy & Protein‑Rich
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This no bake cottage cheesecake is creamy, protein-packed, and made without cream cheese. With a nutty date crust and a smooth, tangy filling, it’s a refreshing dessert that requires no oven just chill, slice, and enjoy.
Ingredients
For the crust:
½ cup walnuts
½ cup almonds
½ cup pitted dates
2 tablespoon maple syrup
¼ teaspoon salt
For the cheesecake:
1 ¼ cups cottage cheese
1 ¼ cups raw cashews (soaked or boiled)
2 tablespoon oat milk (or milk of choice)
2 tablespoon lemon juice
½ cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Spray an 8-inch springform pan with nonstick spray along the bottom and sides; set aside.
2. Add walnuts and almonds to a food processor; pulse until finely chopped. Add dates and blend again until well combined.
3. Drizzle in maple syrup and salt; process until mixture holds together when pressed.
4. Press crust mixture into an even layer in the prepared pan. Freeze while making the filling.
5. In a high-speed blender, combine cottage cheese, soaked cashews, oat milk, lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt. Blend until completely smooth.
6. Pour the filling over the crust, smooth the top, and freeze for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
7. Before serving, let thaw for 5–10 minutes. Slice and enjoy.
Notes
To soak cashews quickly, boil for 20 minutes, then drain and rinse.
Use full-fat cottage cheese for the richest, creamiest result.
Top with fresh berries, fruit compote, or whipped cream just before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: No Bake Desserts
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 276
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 176mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 4mg