Yes, it is possible to make a blueberry cheesecake at home without baking it in the oven. There are several no-bake methods to create a delicious blueberry cheesecake that sets in the refrigerator instead. Here's a simple recipe for a no-bake blueberry cheesecake:
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream (whipping cream)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the blueberry topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (cornflour) mixed with 1 tablespoon water to make a slurry
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan to form the crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
In a saucepan, combine the fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the blueberries soften and release their juices.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry, and continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Once the blueberry topping has cooled down, spread it evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Cover the springform pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4-6 hours or overnight until it sets.
Before serving, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cheesecake. Remove the sides of the springform pan, and your no-bake blueberry cheesecake is ready to be enjoyed!
Remember that this no-bake cheesecake should be kept refrigerated until serving as it relies on the cold temperature to set properly.