Imagine a dessert that combines the sophisticated aroma of Earl Grey tea with the creamy richness of cheesecake, topped with a luscious lemon ganache. This No-Bake Earl Grey Cheesecake is elegant, easy to make, and a perfect pairing for afternoon tea or special occasions.
I first made this for a cozy tea party with friends, and it instantly became a favorite. The bergamot from the Earl Grey tea shines through in every creamy bite, balanced perfectly by the tart lemon ganache. It’s a dessert that tastes as refined as it looks, and now it’s your turn to enjoy it!
Why You’ll Love the No-Bake Earl Grey Cheesecake
- Sophisticated Flavor Profile: The combination of Earl Grey tea and lemon creates a perfectly balanced dessert.
- No Oven Needed: Great for hot days or when you’re looking for a no-fuss recipe.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let it chill—ideal for entertaining.
Ingredient Notes for No-Bake Earl Grey Cheesecake
Every component of this cheesecake contributes to its amazing flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
Lotus Biscoff Cheesecake Crust
- Lotus Biscoff Cookies (7 ounces): Adds a caramelized, spiced base that pairs beautifully with Earl Grey.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): Helps bind the crust together.
- Earl Grey Tea (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle tea notes to the crust for a cohesive flavor.
Earl Grey Cheesecake Filling
- Heavy Cream (1 ¼ cups): Whipped to create a light, airy filling.
- Earl Grey Tea (4 teaspoons): Steeped in cream to infuse its signature bergamot flavor.
- Full-Fat Cream Cheese (12 ounces): The rich, tangy base of the cheesecake.
- Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the filling without overpowering the tea.
- Plain Yogurt (2 tablespoons): Adds a hint of tanginess for balance.
- Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the flavors.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
Creamy Lemon Ganache
- White Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Melts into a creamy, luxurious topping.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Provides a zesty contrast to the sweetness.
- Heavy Cream (2 tablespoons): Ensures the ganache is silky and smooth.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 6-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Food processor (or ziplock bag and rolling pin for crushing cookies)
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
How to Make No-Bake Earl Grey Cheesecake
1. Steep the Earl Grey Cream
Heat 1 ¼ cups of heavy cream with 4 teaspoons of Earl Grey tea over medium heat until it begins to steam. Remove from heat before it boils, cover, and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain the cream and refrigerate to cool completely.
2. Make the Cheesecake Crust
Pulse 7 ounces of Lotus Biscoff cookies in a food processor until finely crushed. Mix with ½ cup of melted butter and 1 teaspoon of Earl Grey tea. Press the mixture firmly into the base of a lined 6-inch springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat 12 ounces of cream cheese, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons plain yogurt, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
Whip the steeped and cooled Earl Grey cream to stiff peaks using a hand mixer. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Pour the filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to set.
4. Make the Lemon Ganache
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup white chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth. Let cool slightly, then whip with a whisk or hand mixer until fluffy. Spread the ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake and return to the refrigerator.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve. It pairs beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or as a refreshing dessert after dinner.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve chilled, garnished with lemon zest, edible flowers, or a light dusting of Earl Grey tea leaves for a touch of elegance.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cheesecake (without ganache) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before adding the ganache and serving.
Variations and Substitutions
This No-Bake Earl Grey Cheesecake is adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs.
- Tea Substitution: Replace Earl Grey with lavender, chai, or green tea for a different flavor.
- Cookie Alternatives: Use graham crackers or digestive biscuits if Biscoff cookies are unavailable.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cream cheese, yogurt, and heavy cream for a vegan version.
Helpful Notes
- Cool the Cream: Ensure the steeped Earl Grey cream is completely chilled before whipping; warm cream won’t hold peaks.
- Even Spreading: Use an offset spatula to smooth the ganache for a polished look.
- Ganache Tip: Let the ganache cool slightly before whipping to avoid a runny consistency.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Claire Saffitz: “Chill your mixing bowl and whisk for faster, more stable whipped cream.”
- Mary Berry: “Take your time pressing the crust firmly into the pan—it’s the foundation of a good cheesecake.”
- Nigella Lawson: “Add a pinch of salt to the crust to balance the sweetness of the dessert.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a larger pan?
Yes, but the layers will be thinner. For an 8-inch pan, increase the crust and filling quantities by 1.5 times.
2. What can I use instead of lemon in the ganache?
You can substitute orange juice for a milder citrus flavor or omit it entirely for a sweeter ganache.
3. How do I crush cookies without a food processor?
Place the cookies in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin until finely ground.
4. Can I skip the ganache?
Yes, the cheesecake is delicious on its own, but the ganache adds a delightful tangy-sweet finish.
5. What’s the best way to slice the cheesecake?
Run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice for clean cuts.
Experience the refined flavors of Earl Grey tea and lemon in this No-Bake Earl Grey Cheesecake with Lemon Ganache. It’s a dessert that will delight your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
