Luscious Strawberry Lemon Cloud Cheesecake

Welcome to the delightful world of no-bake desserts! This exquisite Strawberry Fluffy Lemon Cheesecake Delight offers a heavenly blend of zesty lemon, sweet strawberries, and a creamy, airy texture. Whether you’re planning a special gathering or simply craving a refreshing treat, this recipe is your perfect companion. It’s incredibly light, utterly delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for any occasion. Plus, with a fantastic Keto version available, everyone can enjoy this luscious creation!

Imagine layers of golden graham cracker crust, a cloud-like lemon cheesecake filling, vibrant strawberry pie filling, and a generous dollop of whipped cream. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures, making it one of the best summer no-bake desserts you’ll ever encounter. It’s the ultimate dessert to impress your guests after dinner or to simply treat yourself to a moment of pure bliss. If you love easy, refreshing desserts, you’ll also adore our Easy No-Bake Lemon Pie Dessert and the Easy No-Bake Berry Cheesecake Delight Dessert.

Embrace the Keto-Friendly Version Too!

For those dedicated to a low-carb lifestyle, rejoice! This Strawberry Fluffy Lemon Delight can be easily adapted into a delicious Keto version. The primary difference lies in the crust, which uses almond flour and requires a brief bake, unless you prefer to skip the crust entirely for an even lighter option. Rest assured, whether with or without a crust, this dessert promises an amazing experience, delivering all the incredible flavor without the guilt.

We’ve crafted the lemon cheesecake filling using our renowned Keto Fluffy Lemon Burst Mousse, ensuring a rich, tangy, and unbelievably yummy result. And while you’re exploring our Keto treats, you might want to snag the recipe for our amazing Keto Fluffy Chocolate Mousse – 3 Ingredients of Heaven. It’s definitely a favorite!

Why This No-Bake Cheesecake is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons why this Strawberry Fluffy Lemon Cheesecake Delight deserves a spot in your recipe collection. Firstly, its no-bake nature makes it incredibly simple to prepare, especially during warmer months when turning on the oven is less appealing. It requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and elegance. The light and airy texture of the lemon cheesecake, combined with the fresh burst of strawberries, creates a truly refreshing dessert that isn’t overly heavy, making it perfect after a substantial meal.

Moreover, its make-ahead convenience is a game-changer for busy hosts. You can assemble this delight up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and freeing up your time on the day of your event. It’s also incredibly versatile; easily switch between a classic graham cracker crust and a keto-friendly almond flour crust to cater to different dietary preferences. The striking layers of color and texture also make it a visually stunning centerpiece for any dessert table, garnering compliments from all your guests.

Mastering the Layers of Flavor and Texture

The magic of this dessert lies in its harmonious layers, each contributing a unique element to the overall experience. Understanding each component and how it comes together is key to achieving perfection.

The Foundation: A Crumbly Crust (Regular & Keto)

Every great cheesecake needs a solid foundation, and this recipe offers two delicious options. The classic graham cracker crust provides a buttery, slightly sweet, and perfectly crumbly base that complements the creamy filling. It’s quick to assemble and requires no baking, just a quick chill. For our low-carb friends, the almond flour crust offers a delicate, nutty flavor and a satisfying texture. While it requires a brief bake, it’s still remarkably easy and forms a sturdy base for the keto version of this delightful treat. Both crusts are designed to hold their shape, ensuring each slice is as beautiful as it is delicious.

The Star: Fluffy Lemon Cheesecake Mousse

This isn’t just any cheesecake filling; it’s a fluffy, mousse-like dream. Made with softened cream cheese and whipped cream, it achieves an incredibly light and airy texture that melts in your mouth. The star of this layer is, of course, the lemon. Fresh lemon juice provides a bright, tangy burst that perfectly balances the sweetness of the other components. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, creating a complex yet refreshing profile. Whether you choose the regular or sugar-free version, this lemon mousse is the heart of the dessert, delivering that signature “delight” factor.

Sweet & Tangy: Homemade Strawberry Pie Filling

While canned strawberry filling offers a convenient shortcut, making your own fresh strawberry pie filling elevates this dessert to new heights. The process is surprisingly simple, combining fresh strawberries with sugar, a touch of cornstarch for thickening, and lemon juice to brighten the fruit’s natural sweetness. This homemade filling bursts with genuine strawberry flavor and a lovely, slightly jammy texture. It provides a beautiful crimson layer that not only looks stunning but also offers a delightful contrast in taste and texture to the creamy lemon cheesecake. If strawberries aren’t your preference, this layer is also highly adaptable to other fruits like cherries, blueberries, or raspberries.

The Cloud-Like Crown: Whipped Cream

No layered dessert is complete without a crown of fresh whipped cream. This ethereal topping adds another layer of creaminess and a delicate sweetness that perfectly rounds out the dessert. You can whip your own heavy cream with powdered sugar (or a sugar substitute for the Keto version) until soft peaks form, or opt for a store-bought whipped topping for ultimate convenience. Either way, the light, airy finish of the whipped cream not only adds visual appeal but also a cooling, luxurious sensation that ties all the components together beautifully.

Essential Ingredients You Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this magnificent dessert. We’ve broken down the list by component, including options for both the classic and Keto versions.

For the Classic Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or 1 ready-to-use Graham Pie Crust) – approximately 7-8 crushed graham crackers or 1 pack
• 3 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Keto Almond Flour Crust

• 1 cup almond flour
• 3 ½ tablespoons Lakanto or Erythritol (sugar-free sweetener)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Fluffy Lemon Burst Mousse (Classic & Keto Versions)

• 1 ⅓ cups heavy whipping cream (or 2 + 2/3 cups store-bought whipped cream, reducing powdered sugar to ½ cup)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• ¾ cup powdered sugar or sugar-free powdered sugar (like Lakanto for Keto)
• Juice of 2 fresh lemons (approximately ¼ cup)
• Pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Filling (Classic & Keto Versions)

• 1 can (approx. 20 oz) strawberry pie filling (for convenience) OR homemade:
• 3-4 cups halved fresh strawberries, stems removed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar or sugar-free sugar (like Lakanto for Keto)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream Topping (Classic & Keto Versions)

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar or sugar-free powdered sugar (like Lakanto Powdered Sugar)
• Alternatively, 8 oz to 12 oz store-bought whipped cream or Cool Whip

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh strawberries
• Reserved graham cracker crumbs (for classic version)
• Lemon zest

Step-by-Step Preparation: Crafting Your Delight

Follow these detailed instructions to create your stunning Strawberry Fluffy Lemon Cheesecake Delight.

Preparing the Perfect Crust

1. **For the Regular Graham Cracker Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch square baking pan or a 9-inch pie dish. If desired, reserve 2 tablespoons of crumbs for garnish later. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the other components.
2. **For the Keto Almond Flour Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour, Lakanto (or Erythritol), and melted unsalted butter. Mix until the almond flour is evenly coated and the mixture resembles a rough sand texture. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch square baking pan or a 9-inch pie dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat object to create a smooth, even layer. Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in the refrigerator until ready to add the layers.

Crafting the Homemade Strawberry Filling (If not using canned)

1. In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups of the halved strawberries, sugar (or sugar-free sugar), cornstarch, and lemon juice over medium-low heat.
2. Stir frequently, gently mashing some of the strawberries as they soften, until they begin to release their juices and the mixture starts to warm.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
4. Boil for 1 minute, continuing to stir constantly, allowing the filling to thicken slightly.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Transfer the strawberry filling to a clean, heat-proof container to help it cool faster. Place it in the refrigerator to chill completely while you prepare the lemon mousse. This cooling step is crucial to prevent the filling from melting the cheesecake layer.

Whipping Up the Fluffy Lemon Cheesecake Mousse

1. Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature; this is key for a smooth, lump-free mousse. In a large mixing bowl, whip the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it is light and smooth, with no lumps.
2. Gradually add the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar (or sugar-free powdered sugar) to the cream cheese mixture. Begin whipping on medium-high speed. Continue whipping until the mixture becomes fluffy and creamy, starting to form soft peaks. Be careful not to over-whip.
3. Add the fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Continue to whip on medium speed until the mixture reaches a light, fluffy mousse texture. Avoid whipping at too high a speed, as this can lead to an undesirable texture.

Assembling Your Masterpiece

1. Once your crust is chilled and your strawberry filling and lemon mousse are prepared and cooled, it’s time to assemble. Spread the entire lemon cheesecake mousse mixture evenly over the chilled crust in your prepared pan.
2. Gently spoon the cooled strawberry pie filling over the lemon cheesecake layer, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface. If using fresh halved strawberries, arrange them artfully on top of the cheesecake layer before adding the filling (if desired, or use them as garnish later).

The Final Flourish: Whipped Cream & Garnish

1. **For Homemade Whipped Cream:** In a clean, chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar (or sugar-free powdered sugar like Lakanto) on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
2. Spoon or pipe the whipped cream over the strawberry layer, creating an appealing topping. You can use a pastry bag with a large tip for a decorative border or simply spread it evenly with a spatula.
3. Garnish with extra fresh halved strawberries, a sprinkle of reserved graham cracker crumbs (for the classic version), or a touch of lemon zest for added visual appeal and freshness.
4. Place the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow all the layers to set and the flavors to fully meld.

Pro Tips for Cheesecake Perfection

• Chill Time is Key: Do not rush the chilling process. A minimum of 4 hours is necessary for the layers to set properly, but overnight chilling yields the best texture and allows the flavors to fully develop.
• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: For the smoothest lemon mousse, ensure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened to room temperature. This prevents lumps and ensures an airy consistency.
• Don’t Over-Whip: While you want fluffy peaks for the mousse and whipped cream, over-whipping can make the texture grainy. Whip just until soft/stiff peaks form.
• Fruit Variations: Feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings! Cherries, blueberries, raspberries, or peaches make excellent alternatives to strawberries. Adjust sugar content based on the sweetness of your chosen fruit.
• Serving and Storage: Keep the dessert refrigerated until just before serving. It travels well when kept chilled, making it perfect for potlucks or BBQs. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make It Mini: For individual servings, prepare this delight in small ramekins or glasses. Layer the crust, mousse, and filling, then top with whipped cream for an adorable and portion-controlled dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about this delightful cheesecake:

• Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before proceeding with the filling recipe.
• How far in advance can I make this dessert? This cheesecake can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making it an excellent make-ahead option for parties and events.
• Can this dessert be frozen? While it’s best enjoyed fresh and chilled, you can freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Note that the texture of the whipped cream may change slightly upon thawing.
• What if my lemon mousse isn’t fluffy? Ensure your cream cheese was fully softened and that you whipped the mixture long enough to incorporate air, but not so long that it becomes overly stiff or curdled. The temperature of your cream also plays a role; colder cream whips better.

This dessert is not only gorgeous and incredibly delicious, but it also travels very easily. It’s the perfect treat to bring to a party or BBQ. Just remember to keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve! And don’t forget to try the keto strawberry lemon cheesecake version too!

More Delicious Desserts to Explore

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more delightful creations from our kitchen:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Oreo Delight
• 12 No-Churn Ice Cream Recipes
• Lemon Coconut Cream Cheese Dessert
• 20 Dessert Delights Using Strawberries
• Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
• Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Pudding Filled Cupcakes
• Lemon Layered Pudding Cheesecake Bars
• Strawberry Cheesecake Cream Pie
• Strawberry Explosion Cheesecake Trifle Desserts
• 30 Luscious Layered Desserts
• Mini Cheesecakes
• Red Velvet Cream Cheese Poke Cake
• Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake

You may also want to swoon over this amazing Chocolate Cream Layered Dessert! It’s definitely yummilicious!