The “No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Lasagna” is a vibrant, refreshingly cool dessert that promises layers of delightful textures and flavors without ever needing to turn on your oven. This crowd-pleasing dessert begins with a buttery, crisp graham cracker crust that forms the perfect foundation. Above this, a rich and velvety cream cheese layer, often lightened with whipped topping or whipped cream, delivers a classic cheesecake tang and creamy indulgence. The final, show-stopping layer is a thick, glistening blanket of sweet-tart cherry pie filling, providing a burst of fruity brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese. The combination of the crunchy crust, smooth and tangy cheesecake, and juicy, sweet cherries creates a harmonious symphony in every spoonful. It’s an ideal dessert for potlucks, picnics, or any occasion where you need a make-ahead treat that looks as impressive as it tastes. Its simplicity in preparation, combined with its irresistible appeal, makes it a perennial favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups (about 15-18 full sheets) graham cracker crumbs (finely crushed)
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12 oz (about 3 ½ cups) whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip), or 3 cups freshly whipped heavy cream
For the Cherry Topping:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
Equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Medium mixing bowls (2)
- Electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer)
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions:
Part 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
- Crush Graham Crackers: If not using pre-crushed crumbs, place graham cracker sheets in a Ziploc bag and crush them finely with a rolling pin, or process them in a food processor until fine crumbs are formed.
- Combine Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until all the crumbs are moistened and resemble wet sand.
- Press into Dish: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a flat glass to compact it tightly. This is crucial for a firm crust.
- Chill Crust: Place the prepared crust in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes while you prepare the next layer. This helps it set.
Part 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, softened unsalted butter, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until smooth, light, and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes to ensure no lumps remain.
- Add Vanilla: Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Fold in Whipped Topping/Cream: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping (or freshly whipped heavy cream) using a rubber spatula until no streaks remain and the mixture is uniformly light and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped topping.
- Spread over Crust: Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust in the baking dish. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even layer.
Part 3: Add the Cherry Topping
- Spoon Cherry Filling: Evenly spoon the two cans of cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Gently spread it to cover the entire surface, being careful not to disturb the cream cheese layer below.
Part 4: Chill and Serve
- Chill Thoroughly: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to set completely. The longer it chills, the firmer and easier it will be to slice.
- Serve: Once fully chilled and set, slice the “No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Lasagna” into squares and serve directly from the dish.
Tips for Success:
- Softened Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are thoroughly softened to room temperature. This is key to achieving a smooth, lump-free cream cheese layer.
- Cold Whipped Topping/Cream: If using whipped topping, make sure it is completely thawed but still cold. If whipping your own heavy cream, ensure the cream, bowl, and beaters are very cold for best results.
- Firm Crust: Press the graham cracker crust very firmly into the pan. This prevents it from crumbling when you cut and serve the dessert.
- Chill Time is Crucial: Do not rush the chilling process. The long chill time allows the layers to set properly, making for clean slices and a stable dessert.
- Even Spreading: When spreading the cream cheese and cherry layers, be gentle and work slowly to keep the layers distinct and neat.
- Sweet Dessert: This No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Lasagna is a sweet dessert. It is grouped with other sweet dishes such as Lemon Layer Cake, Classic German Chocolate Cake, Classic Vanilla Soufflé, Ultimate Triple Chocolate Decadence Cake, Strawberry Crunch Cookies, Blender Sponge Cake, various chocolate truffle cakes, Yogurt Cake, Caramel Cream Cheese Pound Cake, Southern-Style Peach Cobbler, Fresh Strawberry Pie, Cinnamon Swirl Apple Loaf Cake, No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake, Pineapple Upside Down Loaf Cake, Elvis Presley Cake, Chocolate Covered Peanut Clusters, Toffee Candy Bar Dessert, and Chocolate Trifle. This contrasts with savory dishes such as Savory Meatloaf with Caramelized Onion Gravy, Creamy Cheesy Baked Chicken Casserole, Crispy Pepperoni French Bread Pizzas, Simple Mediterranean Cucumber & Tomato Salad, Classic Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie, Braised Oxtail, Fresh Napa Cabbage Salad, Savory Sheet Pan Egg Muffins, Irresistible Marinated Feta Cheese, Cheesy Biscuit Bake with Pepper Topping, Sticky Honey Garlic BBQ Ribs, Savory Sausage and Cheese Breakfast Casserole, Crispy Fried Cauliflower, Southern-Style Popcorn Chicken Tenders, and Parsley Diuretic Tea.
- Other Images: The context also includes images related to computer history, ginger root, dead mice and cockroaches around a container of rice, and a Clove-Studded Orange Pomander Ball, none of which are directly related to this dessert recipe.