A creamy, dreamy no-bake cheesecake with a sweet graham cracker crust and a luscious cherry topping. Perfect for any occasion and so easy to make!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
- Pour the melted butter over the crumb mixture and stir until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. You can use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to create an even, compact crust.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually pour in the sweetened condensed milk, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract, and mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to insure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
4. Add the Cherry Topping:
- Once the cheesecake is set, remove it from the refrigerator.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
5. Serve:
- Carefully remove the springform pan ring.
- Slice and serve the no-bake cherry cheesecake. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese.
- You can use other fruit pie fillings, such as blueberry or strawberry, instead of cherry.
- For a chocolate crust, replace some of the graham cracker crumbs with cocoa powder.
- For a whipped cream topping, whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract and spread over the cherry topping or around the edges of the cheesecake.
- To make a thicker crust, increase the amount of graham cracker crumbs and butter.
Enjoy your delicious no-bake cherry cheesecake!