No-bake cheesecakes are a popular dessert option for those looking for a cool, creamy treat without having to turn on the oven. Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake is a classic version that uses Philadelphia cream cheese as its base ingredient. For people avoiding gluten, an important question is whether Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake can be part of a gluten-free diet.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For most people, gluten does not cause any issues. However, for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten triggers an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine. Even small amounts of gluten can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and fatigue in gluten-sensitive individuals. The only treatment for gluten-related disorders is strictly following a lifelong gluten-free diet by avoiding all foods and products containing gluten.
Common Sources of Gluten
Gluten is naturally present in foods made from wheat, barley and rye, such as:
- Breads, cereals, crackers
- Pasta
- Beer
- Cakes, cookies
It can also be found in less obvious sources, including:
- Soy sauce
- Seasonings
- Imitation meats
- Fried foods (from shared fryers)
For a gluten-free diet, it’s important to check labels carefully and watch out for hidden sources of gluten in processed foods.
Is Philadelphia Cream Cheese Gluten-Free?
The key to determining if Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake is gluten-free lies in the main ingredient – Philadelphia cream cheese.
Philadelphia cream cheese is a pasteurized cheese product made by the Kraft Heinz company. The ingredients include cream cheese culture, milk, cream, salt and stabilizers.
According to Kraft Heinz, their regular Philadelphia cream cheese products are gluten-free. This means that plain Philadelphia cream cheese, as well as all the flavored varieties like strawberry and pomegranate, do not contain any gluten containing ingredients.
Therefore, the cream cheese itself is not a concern when making gluten-free no-bake cheesecakes.
Other Ingredients to Check
While the cream cheese is gluten-free, the other ingredients used in no-bake cheesecake recipes must also be evaluated for gluten content:
Graham Crackers
Many no-bake cheesecake recipes use graham cracker crumbs for the crust. Traditional graham crackers contain wheat flour and are not gluten-free.
To make a gluten-free crust, substituted crushed gluten-free cookies, such as vanilla wafers.
Thickeners
Cornstarch or arrowroot starch are commonly used to thicken no-bake cheesecake fillings. Make sure you use brands that are labelled gluten-free, as thickeners can be sources of cross-contamination.
Extracts and Flavorings
Always check that vanilla, almond and other extracts used are gluten-free. Flavorings can sometimes contain undisclosed gluten sources like barley malt.
Toppings
Fresh fruit toppings are a safe bet, but beware of pre-made sauces or glazes that may contain gluten ingredients. For example, caramel sauce can include wheat-derived thickeners.
Cross-Contamination Risks
When preparing a gluten-free no-bake cheesecake at home, you also need to consider potential sources of cross-contamination from gluten-containing foods:
- Use clean, dedicated baking tools and cookware. Things like measuring cups and stirring spoons should only touch gluten-free ingredients.
- Separate ingredients: Store gluten-free and regular flours separately to prevent mix-ups.
- Wash hands thoroughly before and during prep work.
- Use fresh ingredients: Old flour or crumbs sitting in your pantry could be contaminated.
- Carefully clean all work surfaces before use.
Taking steps to prevent cross-contamination ensures your finished dessert stays gluten-free.
Making Gluten-Free Philadelphia No-Bake Cheesecake
Here is a simple recipe for gluten-free no-bake cheesecake using Philadelphia cream cheese:
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups vanilla wafer cookie crumbs (certified gluten-free)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
- 2 (8 ounce) packages Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
Topping:
- Fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, etc.
Instructions
- Make the crust: Crush vanilla wafers into fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter. Press firmly into bottom and up sides of springform pan. Refrigerate while making filling.
- Make the filling: Beat cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Mix in lemon juice. Whip cream into stiff peaks then gently fold into cheese mixture.
- Pour filling over crust. Smooth the top and refrigerate 4+ hours until firm.
- Top cheesecake with fresh fruit before serving. Slice with a clean, dry knife.
This delicious no-bake cheesecake uses gluten-free ingredients and avoids cross-contamination risks. For an extra assurance of gluten-free status when sharing the dessert, serve with a side of fresh fruit instead of a cake topping.
Are There Gluten-Free No-Bake Cheesecake Mixes?
For added convenience, there are several brands of pre-made gluten-free no-bake cheesecake mix:
Jell-O No Bake Cheesecake Mix
Jell-O’s no-bake cheesecake and pudding mixes are labeled gluten-free. Flavor options include strawberry, chocolate, vanilla and more. Prepare the mix as directed using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Pillsbury Gluten Free No Bake Cheesecake Mix
Pillsbury offers a gluten-free mix baking kit that includes a package of the cheesecake mix, vanilla crumb crust and topping. It’s dairy-free as well.
Betty Crocker Gluten Free No Bake Cheesecake Mix
The Betty Crocker brand has a gluten-free no-bake cheesecake mix in flavors like strawberry and chocolate chip. Top with your own fresh fruit or gluten-free whipped topping.
Be sure to check labels to confirm the latest gluten-free status when purchasing a pre-made mix. Manufacturers occasionally change ingredients or production facilities.
Purchasing Ready-Made Gluten-Free Cheesecake
For the ultimate convenience, you can buy a pre-made gluten-free no-bake cheesecake:
Grocery Chains
Many large grocery store chains like Whole Foods Market and Safeway carry gluten-free cakes and cheesecakes in their bakery or freezer sections. Brands will vary by location.
Dedicated Bakeries
Specialty retail and online gluten-free bakeries offer no-bake cheesecakes using trusted recipes. These operate dedicated gluten-free facilities and often provide third-party certification.
Online Ordering
Websites like Goldbelly allow you to order gluten-free no-bake cheesecakes nationwide from
top bakeries and have them shipped frozen right to your door.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
For those with additional dietary needs, gluten-free no-bake cheesecakes can also be made dairy-free or vegan by substituting the ingredients:
Dairy-Free Substitutions
- Use dairy-free cream cheese
- Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk
- Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil in the crust
Vegan Substitutions
- Use vegan cream cheese
- Substitute coconut milk yogurt for dairy yogurt
- Try vegan graham cracker crumbs for the crust
- Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine
With some simple ingredient swaps, you can enjoy delicious no-bake cheesecake while still staying gluten-free and avoiding dairy.
No-Bake vs Baked Gluten-Free Cheesecake
While this article focuses on no-bake gluten-free cheesecake, you can also prepare baked cheesecake using gluten-free options:
No-Bake Benefits
- Easy to make – no need for oven
- Cool, creamy texture
- Short prep and chill time
- No risk of cracking
Baked Benefits
- Warm, smooth texture
- Oven caramelizes flavors
- Can customize crust more
Gluten-free baked cheesecake requires a gluten-free graham cracker or cookie crust. The filling uses Philadelphia cream cheese plus eggs and sour cream, so those must be verified as gluten-free too.
No-Bake Cheesecake Tips
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Cracks in top | Let cool completely before topping |
| Runny filling | Chill longer or use more cornstarch |
| Mushy crust | Bake the crust first before adding filling |
| Bland flavor | Add extracts, citrus zest or fruit purees |
Here are some other helpful tips:
- Grease the sides of pan for easy slice removal
- Start with cream cheese at room temperature for smooth mixing
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight
- Store leftovers covered in fridge up to 5 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake dairy free?
No, Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake is not dairy-free because it contains cream cheese and heavy cream as the main ingredients. To make a dairy-free version, substitute dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Can you use Greek yogurt in no-bake cheesecake?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used to replace some or all of the cream cheese in no-bake cheesecake recipes. Make sure to choose a plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt. You may need to drain some of the liquid whey first.
Is boxed no-bake cheesecake gluten free?
Some brands of boxed no-bake cheesecake mix are labeled gluten-free, like Jell-O and Pillsbury gluten-free mixes. Always check the packaging for the gluten-free symbol or certification and read the ingredients to verify before using a pre-made mix.
Can I freeze no-bake cheesecake?
Yes, no-bake cheesecake can be frozen for long term storage. First freeze the cheesecake in the pan. Once firm, remove from the pan, wrap tightly in plastic wrap then foil and return to the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
How long does no-bake cheesecake last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, no-bake cheesecake will last 5-7 days. Make sure to keep it chilled and tightly covered. The crust may start becoming soft after that time. Frozen no-bake cheesecake can be kept for 2-3 months.
Conclusion
Philadelphia no-bake cheesecake can be enjoyed as part of a gluten-free diet since the main ingredient cream cheese is gluten-free. Be sure to use verified gluten-free graham crackers or substitute cookies to make a gluten-free crust. Check that any added thickeners, extracts and toppings are also gluten-free. Take care to prevent cross-contamination when preparing the cheesecake at home. For convenience, look for pre-made gluten-free no-bake cheesecake mixes or ready-to-eat cheesecakes from dedicated gluten-free bakeries. With the right ingredients and handling, those with gluten sensitivities don’t have to miss out on this cool and creamy classic dessert.
