Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 crackers)
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped pretzel sticks
- 1/2 cup pecans (coarsely chopped)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 8 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (thawed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
Topping
- Fresh berries
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, chopped pretzel sticks, chopped pecans, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is well combined.
- Form the crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer.
- Beat cream cheese: Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment or an electric mixer in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese for 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Add sweetened condensed milk: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and continue beating for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Fold in whipped topping and vanilla: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping and vanilla bean paste into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula until evenly combined.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Evenly spread the cream cheese filling mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Freeze the cheesecake: Cover the pan tightly with foil and place it in the freezer for at least 4 hours to set and firm up.
- Serve: Before serving, remove the foil and top the cheesecake with fresh berries for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Press the crust mixture firmly to avoid it falling apart when slicing.
- Allow the cheesecake to freeze completely for best slicing results.
- You can swap fresh berries with other toppings like chopped nuts or chocolate shavings if desired.
- For easier removal, run a knife around the edge of the pan before releasing the springform latch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American