Go Back

No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake

This No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake is an impossibly creamy, sweet, and wonderfully easy dessert, perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings. No oven required, it’s a quick-to-make showstopper bursting with classic cherry flavor that will bring back delightful childhood memories.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups crushed graham crackers
  • 0.5 cup butter melted
  • 0.33 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 package cream cheese 8-ounce, softened
  • 2 cups whipped topping thawed
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 1 can cherry pie filling 18-ounce

Equipment

  • 8x8 inch Baking Dish
  • Medium bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Grab an 8x8-inch dish and give it a light spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until evenly moistened, like wet sand.
  3. Step 3: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
  4. Step 4: In another medium bowl, combine thawed whipped topping, softened cream cheese, and confectioners' sugar. Beat with an electric mixer (or whisk) until completely smooth and creamy with no lumps.
  5. Step 5: Carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust and use a spatula to gently spread it into an even layer.
  6. Step 6: Spoon the vibrant cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer, spreading it to the edges or leaving a small border.
  7. Step 7: Cover your cheesecake and place it back in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up. The wait is worth it!
  8. Step 8: Once perfectly chilled, slice, serve, and enjoy the sweet, creamy goodness!

Notes

Customize your crust with crushed Oreo cookies, Nilla wafers, or gingersnap cookies. For the filling, enhance the flavor with a teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon zest, or fold in mini chocolate chips or caramel. Explore other pie filling toppings like blueberry, strawberry, peach, or apple, and garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts.
Always use completely softened cream cheese to ensure a lump-free filling. Do not rush the chilling times for the crust and the finished cheesecake, as this is crucial for a firm, sliceable dessert. A springform pan can be used for easier presentation. This is an excellent make-ahead dessert; preparing it a day in advance often allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. While freezing is possible for about a month, be aware that the texture of the whipped topping may change slightly upon thawing; thaw frozen cheesecake overnight in the refrigerator.