No-Bake Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake (Creamy, Dreamy & Gorgeous!)
I still remember the first time I made this cheesecake—it was for my sister’s baby shower. I used to bake all sorts of classics, but when I unveiled that vibrant pink cake, jaws dropped. Seeing everyone’s delight made me fall even deeper in love with this dessert. That’s why I named it Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake—a dreamy combination that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Imagine a silky, pink-hued cheesecake bursting with tart raspberry flavor, balanced by a sweet cream cheese layer. Smooth, lush, just the right amount of zing. It’s perfect for baby showers, birthdays, engagement parties—or whenever you want something pretty and decadent without turning on the oven.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake
- Gorgeous raspberry-infused flavor: bright, tangy, and fruity—without being overly sweet
- Lush, velvet texture: fluffy cream cheese folded into whipped cream makes it airy and indulgent
- No-bake ease: no oven, no water bath, no stress
- Versatile for every occasion: baby showers, brunches, birthdays, or an indulgent weekend treat
Ingredient Spotlight for Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake
What Kind of Raspberries to Use
- Fresh Raspberries: Brightest flavor and natural color—but they’re seasonal and can be pricier
- Frozen Raspberries: Available year-round and budget-friendly—just thaw and strain well to remove excess moisture
Options for Substitutions
- Crust Alternatives: Try Oreo crumbs (especially white chocolate), crushed shortbread, or digestive biscuits
- Dairy Swaps: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream to make it lactose-free or vegan-friendly
- Food Coloring Tips: A small drop of gel food coloring gives a boost to the pink hue—don’t go overboard
- Gelatin-Free Glaze Option: Use cornstarch or agar-agar for a vegetarian-friendly set
Ingredients List
Component | Ingredients |
Crust | Graham cracker crumbs, unsalted butter |
Filling | Cream cheese, granulated sugar, sour cream, raspberry purée, vanilla extract, heavy cream, powdered sugar |
Optional | Gelatin (or agar-agar), food coloring |
Garnish | Fresh raspberries, whipped cream topping |
How to Make Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake: Step-by-Step

1. Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.
- Stir with a fork until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan using the bottom of a flat glass or measuring cup.
Chef tip: Press down hard enough that it holds together, but don’t pack it like cement—it needs a little give to cut cleanly. - Pop the crust in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to set while you prep the filling.
2. Prepare the Raspberry Purée
- In a blender or food processor, blend 1½ cups of fresh or thawed raspberries until completely smooth.
- Pour through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, using a spoon or spatula to press the liquid through and discard the seeds.
- Chill the purée until you’re ready to incorporate it.
Chef tip: Straining is non-negotiable—those seeds ruin the silky texture you’re going for.
3. Mix the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz of room temperature cream cheese with ½ cup granulated sugar, ⅓ cup sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Mix until the texture is completely smooth—no lumps. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Add in ½ cup of the raspberry purée and a drop or two of pink or red gel food coloring (optional) for a more vibrant hue. Mix until fully combined.
Chef tip: Don’t overmix—once it’s smooth, stop. Overbeating can loosen the structure.
4. Whip the Cream
- In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream with ¼ cup of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the raspberry cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula.
This step is key. Folding keeps the filling airy and mousse-like—don’t stir aggressively or you’ll lose all that lovely volume.
5. Pour and Chill
- Pour the cheesecake filling over your chilled crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Tap the pan lightly on the counter a few times to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
This is where patience pays off—the longer the chill, the cleaner the slice.
6. Make the Glaze (Optional)
- If using gelatin: Bloom 1 teaspoon of unflavored gelatin in 2 tablespoons cold water for 5 minutes.
If using agar-agar, follow package instructions (typically 1 teaspoon to ½ cup liquid). - Warm ½ cup of raspberry purée gently in a small saucepan. Add the bloomed gelatin or agar and stir until dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool slightly (don’t pour hot glaze onto a cold cake) and then pour over the chilled cheesecake.
- Return the cake to the fridge and chill for another 30 to 60 minutes until the glaze is fully set.
Chef tip: The glaze adds shine and a punch of raspberry flavor—but skip it if you’re in a rush or keeping things simple.
7. Decorate and Serve
- Once fully set, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Pipe swirls of whipped cream around the edge and pile fresh raspberries on top.
- For ultra-clean slices, dip your knife in hot water, wipe dry, and slice—repeat between cuts.
That juice inside? That’s gold. Let the cake speak for itself on the plate.
Chilling Time for Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake
- Minimum 6 hours in the fridge
- Overnight is best for the perfect texture
- Add 30–60 minutes more if using glaze
Tips for Success with Your Raspberry Cheesecake
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth filling
- Strain raspberry purée to avoid seeds or lumps
- Chill long enough—rushing it results in a soft, unset cake
- A springform pan makes serving and presentation easier
- Be light-handed with food coloring—too much is overpowering
- Use a warm, clean knife for perfect slices
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake
- Not draining raspberry purée—excess liquid weakens the set
- Using cold cream cheese—this leads to lumps
- Overmixing after folding in whipped cream—it flattens the texture
- Cutting too soon before fully chilled
- Overusing food coloring—it can alter taste and color badly
Serving Suggestions for Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake

- Mint Tea or Sparkling Rosé: Both refresh the palate and balance the richness—rosé adds a festive touch.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Creamy and mild, it complements the tartness of the raspberries without overpowering.
- Chocolate Shavings or Lemon Curd: For a bold contrast—choose chocolate for richness, lemon curd for zing.
- Toasted Almonds or Berry Medley: Adds texture and vibrant color—perfect for special occasions.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: A light, dairy-free topping with a hint of tropical flavor.
Optional: A drizzle of raspberry sauce or melted white chocolate can take each slice to the next level.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Keep tightly covered for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Freeze (without fresh garnish) for up to 1 month
- Avoid room temperature: The filling contains dairy and must stay chilled
Related Recipes to Explore
- Looking for layered cheesecake ideas? These Dulce de Leche Cheesecake Bars are a rich, caramel-forward twist you’ll love.
- Craving more no-bake treats? Try the Creamy No-Bake Banana Caramel Dessert—it’s smooth, sweet, and seriously easy.
- For a berry dessert with a nutty spin, this Pistachio Raspberry Cake Recipe is a unique take that still celebrates raspberry’s bright flavor.
- Want to bake your cheesecake flavors into a handheld treat? These Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies are soft, fruity, and great for gifting.
- Need a showstopper for your next gathering? This Peach Cobbler Trifle layers fruit and cream in a jar or bowl—perfect for parties.
- Love the pink dessert vibe? Check out the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake for another stunning centerpiece.
Benefits of Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake
Benefit | Why It Matters |
No-Bake Recipe | No oven required—perfect for hot days or quick prep. |
Velvety, Light Texture | Whipped cream folded in for a mousse-like, airy finish. |
Visually Stunning | Naturally pink from raspberries—ideal for celebrations. |
Customizable | Easy to swap crusts, fillings, and toppings. |
No Water Bath Needed | Simplifies the process—less risk of cracks or sogginess. |
Great for Make-Ahead | Can be prepped a day in advance—perfect for events. |
Glaze is Optional | Extra touch of shine and flavor, but totally skippable. |
Kid-Friendly & Elegant | Sweet enough for kids, sophisticated enough for adults. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes. Press it firmly and chill before adding the filling.
Do I need gelatin?
No—it’s optional. You can skip it or use agar-agar for a vegetarian version.
Dairy-free alternatives?
Yes. Use vegan cream cheese and whipped coconut cream.
Can I use frozen berries?
Absolutely. Just thaw and strain to remove extra moisture.
How to intensify the pink naturally?
Reduce the raspberry purée slightly and use a tiny pinch of beet powder.
Can I make mini versions?
Yes! Use ramekins or silicone molds. Chill time may be shorter.
Conclusion
This Pink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake is your secret weapon for wow-worthy desserts. It’s no-bake, ultra-creamy, and practically foolproof. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just want something a little extra, this beauty delivers. Try it once—and don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature dessert.
Want more showstopping recipes like this? Invite you to visit my page on Pinterest for even more inspiration, tips, and dessert ideas that truly impress.
PrintPink Velvet Raspberry Cheesecake
A dreamy no-bake cheesecake with a silky raspberry filling, light mousse-like texture, and stunning pink color—perfect for showers, birthdays, or anytime you want a gorgeous dessert.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 cheesecake (8–10 servings) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups raspberry purée (strained from fresh or thawed raspberries)
- Pink or red gel food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- Optional: 1 teaspoon gelatin or agar-agar
- Optional: ½ cup additional raspberry purée for glaze
- Fresh raspberries, for garnish
- Whipped cream topping, for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until texture resembles wet sand. Press into a 9-inch springform pan. Chill for at least 20 minutes.
- Blend raspberries until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Chill purée until needed.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Mix in ½ cup raspberry purée and a drop of food coloring (if using).
- Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the raspberry cream cheese mixture.
- Pour filling over chilled crust and smooth the top. Tap to release air bubbles. Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Optional glaze: Bloom gelatin in cold water, warm raspberry purée, dissolve gelatin or agar in it, cool slightly, and pour over chilled cheesecake. Chill another 30–60 minutes.
- Unmold the cheesecake. Decorate with whipped cream swirls and fresh raspberries. Slice with a hot knife for clean cuts.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients and strain raspberry purée for smooth texture. Chill thoroughly before slicing. Customize crust or go dairy-free with coconut cream and vegan cream cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: raspberry cheesecake, no-bake cheesecake, pink velvet, baby shower dessert, party cheesecake