No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Cups

No-bake Nutella cheesecake cups are my go-to dessert when I want something that feels indulgent but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Layers of creamy Nutella cheesecake, crunchy cookie crust, and a hint of chocolate make these cups irresistible. They’re elegant enough to serve at a dinner party yet easy enough to whip up for a weeknight treat.

What I love about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can adjust the sweetness, swap cookies, or even layer in other toppings, but the core remains a creamy, chocolate-hazelnut cheesecake that sets perfectly without baking. It’s a dessert that looks fancy but is actually very approachable.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (Oreos or chocolate wafers)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Nutella Cheesecake Filling

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup Nutella
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks

Optional Toppings

• Chocolate shavings
• Crushed hazelnuts
• Mini chocolate chips
• Whipped cream dollops

Preparing the Crust

The crust adds crunch and structure to the dessert.

Steps:

• Combine cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl
• Mix until crumbs are evenly coated
• Press mixture firmly into the bottom of individual cups or a small glass dish
• Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to set

A firm crust keeps the dessert from being soggy once the cheesecake filling is added.

Making the Nutella Cheesecake Filling

The filling is creamy, smooth, and perfectly sweet.

Steps:

1. Beat cream cheese until completely smooth
2. Add Nutella and powdered sugar
3. Mix in vanilla extract
4. Gently fold in whipped cream to keep the mixture light and airy

Tip: Beat the cream cheese first thoroughly to avoid lumps, and fold whipped cream gently to maintain fluffiness.

Assembling the Cups

Steps:

• Spoon or pipe a layer of Nutella cheesecake over the chilled crust
• Smooth the top with a spatula
• Optional: sprinkle chocolate shavings or crushed hazelnuts on top
• Repeat layers if using taller cups, ending with toppings

For a polished look, use a piping bag or a small spoon to layer neatly.

Chilling the Dessert

• Refrigerate assembled cups for at least 2–3 hours
• Chilling ensures the cheesecake sets firmly
• Best served cold for a creamy, refreshing texture

This step cannot be skipped; the filling is too soft otherwise.

@undergradchefs_

Texture and Flavor Profile

• Creamy, smooth cheesecake filling
• Crunchy, chocolatey cookie crust
• Sweet and nutty Nutella flavor
• Optional nut or chocolate toppings add extra crunch

Every bite balances creamy, crunchy, and chocolate-hazelnut richness.

Preparation and Serving Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 2–3 hours
• Total Time: About 3 hours
• Servings: 6–8 individual cups

Serving Suggestions

Nutella cheesecake cups are versatile and crowd-pleasing.

Serve them:

• Straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat
• With a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce
• Alongside fresh berries
• With coffee, espresso, or hot chocolate
• As a make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings

Individual cups make presentation easy and mess-free.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Do not freeze, as the texture of the whipped cream and Nutella may separate
• Add toppings just before serving to maintain appearance

These cups hold up well, making them perfect for prepping ahead.

Variations to Try

• Peanut Butter Nutella Cups: Add a swirl of peanut butter into the cheesecake layer
• Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch: Mix chopped hazelnuts into the crust or top layer
• Mini Tart Version: Use mini tart shells instead of cups for a party platter
• Layered Dessert: Alternate Nutella cheesecake with crushed cookies or brownie pieces

These tweaks let you personalize the dessert without altering the base recipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping chilling time, which causes the dessert to be too soft
• Overmixing the whipped cream, which can deflate it
• Using warm cream cheese, which may create lumps
• Not pressing the crust firmly, leading to crumbling

Following these tips ensures each cup holds together beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different chocolate spread instead of Nutella?
Yes, any chocolate-hazelnut spread works, though flavor may vary slightly.

Can these be made ahead?
Absolutely, prepare up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and use larger cups or a small dish.

Can I make them in a single pan?
Yes, line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper and layer as usual.

How can I make them lighter?
Use whipped cream in place of some cream cheese or swap Nutella for a lighter chocolate spread.

Why These Cups Are a Must-Make

No-bake Nutella cheesecake cups are the perfect blend of creamy, chocolatey, and nutty flavors in an easy, fuss-free dessert. They’re quick to assemble, visually appealing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving them at a party or indulging yourself, these cups are always a hit, combining elegance and comfort in each bite. The best part is that they taste like they came from a bakery, but you can make them at home with minimal effort.