Why It’s Great

This No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert is loved for many reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly simple to make and requires no baking, making it a hassle-free option for any aspiring home cook. The combination of the crunchy graham cracker crust and the creamy cheesecake filling topped with cherries delivers a classic flavor profile that never goes out of style. Plus, this dessert is highly customizable—whether you want to swap the cherry topping for another fruit, or add a touch of chocolate for a unique twist, the possibilities are endless! Lastly, because it can be prepared ahead of time, it’s a fantastic choice for entertaining guests, freeing you up to enjoy their company instead of spending all your time in the kitchen.

Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip)

For the Topping:

• 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well-combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you make the filling.
2. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping with a spatula until the mixture is light and airy.
3. Assemble the dessert: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure an even layer.
4. Add the cherry topping: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer, spreading it gently to avoid mixing the two layers.
5. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let it set completely before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: For the best flavor and texture, serve the No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Dessert chilled. Cut it into squares and feel free to garnish with additional whipped cream or fresh cherries for that extra special touch. It’s a fantastic option for parties, family gatherings, or as a sweet ending to your summer BBQ!
• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dessert tastes best within the first couple of days. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream cheese filling may change upon thawing.

Helpful Notes

• Make it lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping to cut down on calories.
• Crust options: For those who appreciate a chocolatey twist, consider using crushed chocolate cookies (like Oreos) instead of graham crackers for the crust. This will add a richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherry topping.
• Fruit topping variations: While cherry pie filling is a fan-favorite, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruit fillings such as blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry for a refreshing change.
• Firm filling: To achieve a firmer cheesecake filling, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture. This adds a delightful tanginess that balances the sweetness perfectly.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh cherries, simply cook them down with some sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a thick sauce that mimics the texture of canned pie filling.

2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert is perfect for making in advance. Prepare it the night before and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve. Just make sure it has time to set properly for at least 4 hours.

3. Can I use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Definitely! You can use homemade whipped cream in place of Cool Whip. Just remember to whip the cream to stiff peaks before folding it into the cream cheese mixture.

4. How do I keep the layers from mixing when adding the cherry topping?

To keep the layers distinct, gently spoon the cherry topping over the cream cheese layer and spread it evenly using the back of a spoon without pressing down hard.

5. Can I freeze this dessert?

Freezing is not recommended for this dessert, as it can alter the creamy texture of the filling once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge over the next few days.