How to Make the Best No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe

Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! Are you craving something sweet, creamy, and absolutely divine? Well, you’re in luck because today I’m sharing my secret recipe for the best no-bake cherry cheesecake you’ve ever tasted! This dessert is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also perfect for those warm days when you don’t feel like turning on the oven. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite. So, let’s dive in and get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a no-bake recipe, so no oven required!
• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for weeknight dinner ideas or last-minute gatherings.
• Light, creamy, and full of cherry flavor.
• Customizable with your favorite toppings or mix-ins.
• Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or even quick family dinners.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious no-bake cherry cheesecake:

• 9 graham crackers (1 sleeve)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 8 tablespoons melted butter (1 stick, unsalted)
• 16 ounces cream cheese (2 blocks, softened)
• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
• 8 ounces Cool Whip (1 container)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (fresh)
• 21 ounces cherry pie filling (1 can)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s break this down into simple steps so you can make it with confidence:

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, letting the parchment fold over two sides of the dish. This will allow you to pull the cheesecake out of the pan later.
2. Make the Crust: In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until they are small crumbles. If you don’t have a food processor, put the crackers in a zip-top bag and hit them with a mallet or other kitchen object.
3. Mix the Crust: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, place the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, salt, and melted butter, and mix to combine.
4. Press the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the baking dish, pressing until firm. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you make the cheesecake filling.
5. Make the Filling: With an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until soft. Mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth.
6. Combine: Fold in the Cool Whip until combined and smooth.
7. Assemble: Pour the cheesecake mixture on top of the graham cracker crust. Smooth out with a spatula. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours or overnight.
8. Top and Serve: Top with cherry pie filling before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your no-bake cherry cheesecake turns out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Cherries if Possible: While cherry pie filling is convenient, fresh cherries can add an extra burst of flavor. Try mixing in some fresh cherries into the filling for an even tastier twist!
• Let it Chill: Don’t skip the chilling time. It’s crucial for the cheesecake to set properly and hold its shape.
• Customize it: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or nuts, to the crust or filling for extra flavor.
• Make it a Dip: If you want a fun twist, break the cheesecake into pieces and serve it as a dip with graham crackers or fruit. It’s a great idea for fruit dips at your next gathering!

How to Serve

There are so many ways to enjoy this no-bake cherry cheesecake:

• Serve it as a standalone dessert with a side of fresh fruit.
• Use it as a base and top it with your favorite fruits, like blueberries or strawberries.
• Break it into bite-sized pieces for a quick snack or appetizer.
• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

This no-bake cherry cheesecake is perfect for making ahead of time:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the cheesecake up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

And there you have it—my secret recipe for the best no-bake cherry cheesecake! It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other no-bake cheesecake recipes, like my How to Make the Best No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake and How to Make the Best Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake. Happy baking (or should I say, no-baking) and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!

Cherry Cheesecake Recipe (No Bake)

A creamy and refreshing no-bake cheesecake with a graham cracker crust topped with cherry pie filling.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 9 slices

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Crust

• 9 crackers graham crackers 1 sleeve
• 2 Tablespoons sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 8 Tablespoons melted butter 1 stick, unsalted

Filling

• 16 ounces cream cheese 2 blocks, softened
• 1 cup confectioner's sugar
• 8 ounces Cool Whip 1 container
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice fresh

Topping

• 21 ounces cherry pie filling 1 can

Instructions

 

• Line an 8x8 baking dish with parchment paper, letting the parchment fold over two sides for easy removal later.
• Pulse graham crackers in a food processor until crumbly. Alternatively, crush in a zip-top bag with a mallet.
• Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, salt, and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Press into the prepared baking dish and chill in the refrigerator.
• Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth. Fold in Cool Whip until combined.
• Pour cheesecake mixture over the crust, smooth with a spatula, and chill in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours or overnight.
• Top with cherry pie filling before serving.

Notes

For a fresher taste, use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling if available.

Keyword cheesecake