No-bake cheesecake is set with gelatin instead of eggs, but that does not make it any more forgiving about sitting out. Cream cheese is cream cheese, whichever recipe you use.
So, the answer is the same two hours you would give a baked one. After that, bacteria start multiplying fast enough that it is not worth the risk.
Does The Room Matter?
It does, quite a bit. On a hot day, or somewhere humid, we would cut that down to about an hour. A cool, air-conditioned kitchen buys you a little more leeway, but two hours is still the ceiling either way.
Now, no-bake cheesecake also softens faster once it is out, since there is no egg structure holding it firm. So even within that window, do not expect it to hold its shape as well as a baked one would.
What About At A Party?
The same rule applies, however inconvenient it feels. If it has been out on the dessert table for three or four hours, it goes in the bin rather than back in the fridge.
So, if you are serving it somewhere warm, keep it in a cooler with an ice pack until it is time to bring it out, and only put out as much as people will eat in the next hour or two.
Watch This Video:
Sam is an experienced pastry chef and baking enthusiast who loves to create delicious desserts. Born and raised in a small town, Sam grew up with a deep appreciation for the simpler things in life, including cooking and baking. After graduating from culinary school, Sam began working in a number of bakeries and restaurants, honing her craft and perfecting her recipes.