Jello no bake cheesecake is a delicious dessert that is quick and easy to make. It is made by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and instant jello pudding mix. No baking is required, allowing the cheesecake to set in the refrigerator. With its smooth and creamy texture, no bake cheesecake is a crowd favorite. However, since there is no baking involved, it does not have as long of a shelf life as baked cheesecake. So how long does no bake cheesecake last?
How Long Does No Bake Cheesecake Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored, no bake cheesecake will last for about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. To get maximum freshness, it is best consumed within 3 to 4 days. Here are some tips for proper storage:
- Cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. This prevents it from absorbing fridge odors and from drying out.
- Do not store no bake cheesecake at room temperature or in warm environments. The filling can spoil without refrigeration.
- Once sliced, press plastic wrap directly on the surfaces of the cheesecake to prevent drying. Consume within 2 days.
The main factor that determines how long no bake cheesecake lasts is the cream cheese. Since the filling is not cooked, it is more prone to spoiling. Signs that the cheesecake has gone bad include mold growth, off odors, and separation of the filling.
Does No Bake Cheesecake Freeze Well?
Yes, no bake cheesecake freezes nicely for longer term storage. To freeze:
- First, chill the cheesecake for at least 6 hours in the refrigerator until set.
- Cover tightly in a few layers of plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer bag or airtight container. Remove as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 2 to 3 months.
When ready to serve, thaw the frozen cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator. Let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving. The texture may be a bit runnier after thawing but the taste remains delicious.
Tips for Extending the Shelf Life
Here are some helpful tips to extend the shelf life of your homemade no bake cheesecake:
- Use ultra-pasteurized cream cheese. It has a longer shelf life than regular cream cheese.
- Substitute the cream cheese for mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese. Both tend to last longer.
- Add a bit of lemon juice to the filling. The acidity helps inhibit mold growth.
- Store the cheesecake on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator where it is coldest.
- Once cut, only store at fridge temperatures for 2 days maximum.
How to Tell if No Bake Cheesecake Has Gone Bad
Here are signs that your no bake cheesecake has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat:
- Mold growth – This is an obvious sign of spoilage. Mold can vary in color but usually appears fuzzy or hairy.
- Off odors – If it smells sour or unpleasant, the cheesecake has gone bad.
- Separation – If the filling is weeping or pulling away from the crust, toss it.
- Dryness – Drying around the edges is a sign it is past its prime.
- Sliminess – A gummy or slimy texture means spoilage.
When in doubt, remember the old saying “When in doubt, throw it out!” Don’t risk getting sick from consuming spoiled foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave no bake cheesecake out at room temperature?
No, no bake cheesecake should always be refrigerated. The dairy-based filling requires refrigeration to prevent bacteria growth. Leaving it out too long, especially in hot weather, can make the cheesecake unsafe to eat.
What happens if you freeze cheesecake twice?
Freezing cheesecake twice is not recommended. The texture and quality will degrade after each freeze-thaw cycle. The cheesecake may become grainy or watery. For best results, thaw the frozen cheesecake just once before consuming.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used in place of cream cheese for the filling. Make sure to drain excess liquid from the yogurt first. The yogurt gives a tangier flavor. You may need to adjust sugar and other ingredients to compensate.
Should I thaw cheesecake before serving?
For the best texture, it is best to thaw frozen cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator. Letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving can also help prevent a soggy crust. Do not try to rush thaw in the microwave.
Can I freeze cheesecake with the crust?
Yes, it is fine to freeze no bake cheesecake with the crust. Graham cracker or crushed cookie crusts freeze well. Just wrap the entire cheesecake tightly before freezing. The crust may soften a bit after thawing but will still be tasty.
Conclusion
No bake cheesecake can last 5-7 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. For longer storage, freeze for 2-3 months. Signs of spoilage include mold, off-smells, separation, and slimy texture. With proper refrigeration and handling, you can safely enjoy delicious no bake cheesecake for up to a week before it goes bad. Follow these tips on storage, freezing, and shelf life to get the most out of your homemade no bake cheesecake.