This easy no-bake cherry cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s creamy, sweet, and requires no oven time!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 (16 ounce) can cherry pie filling
Instructions:
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to create an even, compact crust. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to set completely.
- Add the Topping: Once the cheesecake is set, spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
- Serve: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled.
Optional Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh cherries
- Chocolate shavings
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer crust, use a little more melted butter.
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t overbeat the cream cheese, as this can make the filling too dense.
- You can use other pie fillings, such as blueberry or strawberry, instead of cherry.
- For a chocolate crust, add cocoa powder to the graham cracker mixture.
- You can also swirl some of the cherry pie filling into the cheesecake filling before it sets.
Enjoy your delicious no-bake cherry cheesecake!