Craving a deliciously smooth and creamy cheesecake without the hassle of making a crust? This crustless cheesecake recipe is the perfect solution! Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also delivers a rich and velvety texture that rivals traditional cheesecakes.

Why Choose a Crustless Cheesecake?

Unlike classic cheesecake, which usually features a buttery graham cracker or cookie crust, this version skips it entirely—making it ideal for those who prefer a low-carb, gluten-free, or simpler-to-make dessert.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?

Fewer carbs without sacrificing flavor.
Gluten-free by default—no need for alternative crust ingredients.
Easier preparation with fewer steps and less mess.
Perfectly creamy texture that stays light and airy.

Whether you enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings, this crustless cheesecake is sure to become your go-to dessert.

For another delicious and creamy dessert, check out this Eggnog Pie Recipe—a spiced and festive treat!

Why You’ll Love This Crustless Cheesecake Recipe

Still not convinced? Here’s why this crustless cheesecake recipe will become your favorite:

✅ Simple ingredients & easy steps – No fancy tools or complicated techniques required.
✅ Perfect for special diets – Great for those on low-carb or gluten-free meal plans.
✅ Creamy and rich texture – The absence of a crust allows the velvety smooth filling to shine.
✅ Versatile dessert – Serve it plain, or pair it with fruit, chocolate, or caramel.

This recipe is proof that you don’t need a crust for a decadent cheesecake experience!

Ingredients for the Best Crustless Cheesecake Recipe

The key to a perfect crustless cheesecake is using high-quality ingredients and the right balance of flavors.

Essential Ingredients

To make this classic, creamy crustless cheesecake, you’ll need:

Cream cheese – The base ingredient that provides richness and structure.
Sugar (or sugar substitute) – Adds sweetness and balances flavors.
Eggs – Essential for binding and creating that silky, smooth texture.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness.
Sour cream or heavy cream – Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang.

A wooden countertop with ingredients for a crustless cheesecake, including cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract.

Optional Ingredients & Variations

Want to customize your cheesecake? Try these variations:

Lemon juice – Adds a fresh and slightly tangy flavor.
Almond or coconut flour – A small amount can provide a firmer texture if desired.
Chocolate or fruit flavors – Swirl in melted chocolate, fruit puree, or spices for a unique twist.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the easy step-by-step preparation in Part 2!

How to Make Crustless Cheesecake Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide

Making a crustless cheesecake is simpler than you think! Follow this detailed, step-by-step guide to create a smooth, creamy, and rich dessert that melts in your mouth.

Step 1 – Preparing Your Ingredients

Before you begin, proper preparation is key to achieving a perfectly textured cheesecake.

Remove cream cheese from the fridge and let it reach room temperature for easy mixing.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure even baking.
Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
If using a water bath, wrap the bottom of your springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent leaks.

Pro Tip: Bringing ingredients to room temperature helps prevent lumps in your batter!

Step 2 – Mixing the Batter

Creating a smooth and creamy cheesecake batter requires careful mixing.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition to maintain consistency.
Stir in vanilla extract for a hint of natural sweetness.
Gently fold in sour cream or heavy cream to create a light, fluffy texture.

Avoid overmixing, as too much air in the batter can cause the cheesecake to crack.

A baker mixing cream cheese, eggs, and sugar in a glass bowl for a crustless cheesecake recipe.

Step 3 – Baking to Perfection

Baking your crustless cheesecake correctly ensures a velvety, rich consistency.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
For an ultra-creamy cheesecake, use a water bath by placing the pan inside a larger baking dish filled with hot water halfway up the sides.

Why use a water bath? It creates a humid environment that prevents cracks and keeps your cheesecake luxuriously smooth.

Step 4 – Cooling and Chilling

Proper cooling is essential for a perfect cheesecake texture.

Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for about 1 hour to prevent sudden temperature changes.
Transfer the cheesecake to the counter and let it cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours (preferably overnight) for the flavors to develop and the texture to set.

Tip: Chilling overnight enhances the cheesecake’s creaminess and depth of flavor.

A perfectly baked crustless cheesecake recipe with a smooth golden surface, cooling on a wire rack.

Variations of Crustless Cheesecake Recipes

Want to try something different? Here are four delicious variations of the classic crustless cheesecake recipe that you’ll love!

Classic New York-Style Crustless Cheesecake

A New York-style crustless cheesecake is extra dense, rich, and creamy, with a slight tang from sour cream.

Uses more cream cheese for a thick texture.
Often baked at a lower temperature for a longer time to achieve a smooth finish.
Best served plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Keto & Low-Carb Crustless Cheesecake

A low-carb crustless cheesecake is ideal for those on a keto diet while still enjoying a creamy, indulgent treat.

Substitute sugar with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
Use almond flour for a slightly firmer structure.
Top with whipped cream or sugar-free chocolate drizzle.

With only 3-4g net carbs per slice, it’s a guilt-free dessert!

Crustless Cheesecake with Fruit Toppings

Adding fresh fruit can enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of your cheesecake.

Top with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor.
Use homemade fruit compote for a naturally sweet topping.
Try adding lemon zest to the batter for extra brightness.

This version is perfect for a light and fruity dessert!

Basque-Style Crustless Cheesecake

A Basque-style crustless cheesecake is a bold and caramelized take on the traditional recipe.

Baked at high heat (400°F/200°C) to create a burnt, golden top.
The inside remains creamy and slightly custard-like.
Requires no water bath and has a rustic appearance.

If you love deep flavors and a unique texture, this is the perfect crustless cheesecake for you!

Crustless Cheesecake Variations – Quick Comparison

Variation	Texture	Flavor Profile	Best For
Classic New York-Style	Dense, rich	Slightly tangy	Cheesecake purists
Keto & Low-Carb	Creamy, slightly firm	Sweet with sugar-free options	Low-carb and keto diets
Fruit-Topped	Light and airy	Fresh and fruity	Summer desserts
Basque-Style	Creamy inside, burnt top	Caramelized, deep flavor	Unique, rustic look

Looking for more low-carb dessert options? Check out this Almond Flour Brownie Recipe for another delicious and guilt-free treat!

Tips for Making the Perfect Crustless Cheesecake

A crustless cheesecake should be smooth, creamy, and free of cracks. Here are some expert tips to ensure you achieve the best results every time.

How to Avoid Cracks in Your Cheesecake

Nothing is more disappointing than a cracked cheesecake! Follow these steps to keep your crustless cheesecake looking flawless:

Use a water bath – This technique keeps moisture in the oven, preventing the surface from drying out and cracking.
Avoid overmixing the batter – Too much air in the batter can cause it to puff up in the oven and then collapse.
Slow cooling process – Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door slightly open for an hour. A sudden temperature change can cause cracks.

The Best Way to Store and Freeze Cheesecake

Proper storage keeps your cheesecake fresh and delicious for days or even months!

Refrigeration: After chilling, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Cheesecake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: Let frozen cheesecake defrost in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture

A silky-smooth cheesecake depends on proper mixing and baking techniques.

Bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps.
Use a low mixing speed to avoid incorporating too much air into the batter.
Bake at a low temperature (325°F/163°C) for even cooking and a creamy finish.

Serving Suggestions and Toppings for Crustless Cheesecake Recipe

Enhance your crustless cheesecake recipe with these delicious topping ideas.

Classic Toppings

Fresh fruit and berries – Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries add a burst of natural sweetness.
Whipped cream – A light and airy contrast to the rich cheesecake texture.

Indulgent Toppings

Chocolate ganache – A rich chocolate drizzle makes the cheesecake extra decadent.
Caramel sauce – Adds a buttery sweetness to every bite.
Crushed nuts or shredded coconut – A great way to add texture.

Savory Cheesecake Variations

For a unique twist, turn your cheesecake into a savory appetizer!

Add a mix of cream cheese, cheddar, and parmesan for a cheese-forward dish.
Top with herbs, garlic, or sun-dried tomatoes for a more complex flavor.

A slice of crustless cheesecake recipe with strawberries and chocolate drizzle on a white plate.

FAQs – Answering Your Questions About Crustless Cheesecake Recipe

Here are some common questions about making crustless cheesecake recipe and how to troubleshoot potential issues.

Can I make this cheesecake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with:

Greek yogurt or sour cream (¼ cup per egg) for a similar creamy consistency.
Cornstarch mixed with water (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water per egg).
Mashed bananas or applesauce for a fruitier, denser version.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Common reasons for cracks include:

Overbaking – Remove the cheesecake when the center still has a slight jiggle.
Skipping the water bath – Dry oven conditions cause cracking.
Cooling too quickly – A gradual cool-down prevents sudden cracks.

How do I know when my crustless cheesecake is done baking?

Use the jiggle test:

Gently shake the pan—if the edges are firm but the center jiggles slightly, it’s done.
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out mostly clean, the cheesecake is ready.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

Absolutely!

Instant Pot: Use a springform pan that fits inside, cook on high pressure for 35 minutes, then let it naturally release for 15 minutes.
Slow Cooker: Place the pan inside with water around it (like a water bath) and cook on low for 2.5–3 hours.

How can I make a dairy-free crustless cheesecake?

For a dairy-free cheesecake, try:

Vegan cream cheese (almond- or cashew-based).
Coconut cream instead of sour cream.
Maple syrup or agave nectar as a natural sweetener.

Looking for another creamy dessert? Check out this Tiramisu Recipe for a classic, coffee-flavored treat!

Final Thoughts – Why This Crustless Cheesecake Recipe is a Must-Try

This crustless cheesecake recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. It’s easy to make, incredibly creamy, and can be customized with different flavors and toppings.

With fewer carbs, a naturally gluten-free base, and a foolproof process, there’s no reason not to try this delicious dessert!

For more baking tips and techniques, visit King Arthur Baking to learn from expert bakers.

Crustless Cheesecake Recipe: Creamy, Light, and Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

This crustless cheesecake recipe is rich, creamy, and easy to make! With no crust, it’s naturally gluten-free and lower in carbs, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings!

Author: Meriem
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
½ cup sugar (or sugar substitute for low-carb version)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream or heavy cream
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until combined.
Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
To avoid cracks, bake with a water bath or let it cool slowly.
Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 230
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Crustless Cheesecake Recipe