A colorful and creamy spring dessert that’s perfect for Easter celebrations.
This No Bake Easter Swirl Cake is as eye-catching as it is delicious. With its pastel swirls and light, mousse-like filling, it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for any springtime celebration. The best part? There’s no baking involved. A buttery graham cracker crust is topped with layers of whipped cream and cream cheese in playful hues, then chilled until set. It’s the kind of dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make.
Whether you’re planning a festive brunch, Easter dinner, or just want to brighten a weekend, this chilled dessert brings a pop of color and flavor to the table.
Why You’ll Love It
- Simple to make: No oven, no fuss
- Visually stunning: Perfect for spring or Easter themes
- Light and creamy: Silky filling with a whipped texture
- Customizable: Use your favorite colors and add-ins
Ingredients
- 1½ cups crushed graham crackers
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz block-style cream cheese, softened
- Gel food coloring in 4 pastel shades (e.g., pink, yellow, green, blue)
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix until evenly combined and the texture resembles damp sand. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill in the fridge to set while you prepare the filling.
2. Whip the Cream
Using a mixer, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
4. Fold and Tint
Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese until well combined. Divide the mixture evenly into four bowls. Add a small amount of food coloring to each bowl and stir until you reach your desired pastel tones.
5. Swirl and Layer
Spoon random dollops of each color into the crust in layers. Once all the filling is added, gently swirl the top using a skewer or toothpick to create a marbled effect.
6. Chill to Set
Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Once firm, remove from the springform pan and serve chilled.
Tips and Variations
- Crust swaps: Try vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a twist
- Flavor boosters: Add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the filling
- Decorate: Top with candy eggs, pastel sprinkles, or edible flowers
- Mini cakes: Make individual servings using cupcake liners or ramekins
Storage
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 4 days covered
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before serving
No Bake Easter Swirl Cake Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings
Ingredients
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese
- Gel food coloring (4 pastel colors)
Instructions
- Mix graham crumbs, butter, and sugar. Press into a 9-inch springform pan. Chill.
- Whip cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Fold in whipped cream.
- Divide mixture into 4 bowls and color each with pastel gel coloring.
- Dollop into crust and gently swirl with a toothpick.
- Chill for 4 hours or until firm. Remove from pan and serve.
Whimsical and easy to make, this No Bake Easter Swirl Cake is sure to impress your guests and brighten up your spring table. Creamy, colorful, and completely oven-free—it’s the perfect dessert to welcome warmer days.
