Of course! A No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake is a classic, creamy, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm days, potlucks, or when you don’t want to turn on the oven. It’s incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Here is a simple, foolproof recipe with a delicious homemade touch.
No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Serves: 8-10
Ingredients
For the Crust:
· 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
· ⅓ cup granulated sugar
· 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
· 2 (8 oz) blocks full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
· 1 cup powdered sugar
· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
· 1 (8 oz) tub frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed OR 2 cups sweetened whipped cream*
For the Topping:
· 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Press the Crust: Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate or springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press it down evenly.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you make the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it is completely smooth and free of lumps. This is the most important step for a silky filling!
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping (or your homemade sweetened whipped cream) using a spatula. Fold until no white streaks remain. Be gentle to keep the filling light and airy.
- Assemble: Remove the crust from the refrigerator. Spoon the cheesecake filling into the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill Thoroughly: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This is essential for the cheesecake to set properly.
- Top and Serve: Just before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
*For Homemade Sweetened Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Use this in place of the frozen whipped topping.
Tips for Success & Variations
· Room Temperature Cream Cheese is Key: This is non-negotiable! If the cream cheese is cold, you will end up with a lumpy filling. Take it out of the fridge at least 1-2 hours before you start.
· Don’t Overmix After Adding Whipped Cream: Folding gently is crucial. If you beat it, you will deflate the air and the filling won’t be as light and fluffy.
· Crust Variations: You can use other types of crumbs like crushed vanilla wafers, Oreos (remove the filling for a chocolate crust), or shortbread cookies.
· Different Toppings: While cherry is classic, feel free to use any pie filling you like, such as blueberry, strawberry, or apple. You can also top with fresh berries or a chocolate ganache.
· Flavor the Filling: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a bright, tangy twist. You can also fold in some lemon zest.
· Individual Servings: For easy portion control, make the cheesecake in individual jars or glasses. Simply layer the crust, then the filling, and top with cherries.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
· Incredibly Easy: No baking, no water bath, no complicated steps. It’s a simple “mix and chill” dessert.
· Light and Creamy: The texture is airy and smooth, unlike its dense, baked counterpart.
· Make-Ahead Dream: It’s the perfect dessert to make the day before a party or gathering.
· Nostalgic and Delicious: The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet cherry topping is a timeless favorite.
Enjoy your delicious, cool, and creamy No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake