Name: No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing, this No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake is the perfect choice. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant cherry topping, it’s the kind of treat that feels both luxurious and light. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no oven time at all! I love how simple yet impressive it is to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 cups cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a medium-sized bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add the melted butter and stir until everything is well mixed. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish or springform pan to form the crust. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is well combined and smooth.

Pour the cream cheese filling over the chilled graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set.

Once the cheesecake has set, top it with the cherry pie filling just before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Total Time: 4 hours

Servings: 8 servings

Variations

If I want to switch things up, I can play around with different fruit toppings. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries would all work wonderfully, providing a tangy complement to the creamy filling. I can also use a variety of crusts – try crushed chocolate cookies for a richer flavor or even an oat-based crust for a healthier spin.

Storage/Reheating

This cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered to keep it fresh. I recommend not adding the cherry topping until just before serving to prevent it from making the crust soggy. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, there’s no need for reheating – just enjoy it cold!

FAQs

How long should I chill the cheesecake?

I recommend chilling the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but if possible, letting it sit overnight will ensure the filling sets perfectly.

Can I use a different fruit topping instead of cherries?

Absolutely! You can use any fruit topping you like. I often switch it up with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries for a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich cheesecake.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! This no-bake cheesecake is actually perfect for making ahead of time. It needs time to set, so preparing it the day before is ideal.

Can I use a pre-made graham cracker crust?

While I love making the graham cracker crust from scratch, you can definitely use a pre-made crust if you’re short on time. Just be sure to check the size, as some pre-made crusts may be smaller than the one in the recipe.

How do I make this cheesecake dairy-free?

To make this cheesecake dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use coconut or almond cream in place of the heavy whipping cream.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines ease with delicious flavor. The creamy filling paired with the sweet cherry topping is a combination I always love. Whether I’m preparing it for a special occasion or just to satisfy my sweet tooth, this cheesecake never disappoints. The best part is that it requires minimal effort and no baking, which makes it perfect for warm-weather months or whenever I’m craving something indulgent without turning on the oven.

Recipe: