No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe

The Dreamiest No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe Ever

Sweet, creamy, and absolutely irresistible, this no-bake cherry cheesecake recipe delivers pure dessert magic.

Indulgent layers of silky smooth cream cheese blend perfectly with a buttery graham cracker crust.

Each spoonful promises a delightful balance of tangy and sweet flavors that dance across your palate.

Fresh cherries add a vibrant pop of color and juicy brightness to this delectable treat.

The best part?

You can whip up this stunning dessert without ever turning on the oven.

Chilled to perfection and ready in minutes, this cheesecake will become your new go-to summer dessert that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Tricks for Silky Smooth No Bake Cheesecake

  • Refrigerate the graham cracker base for at least 15 minutes to help it set firmly and prevent crumbling when slicing.
  • Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing without overbeating.
  • Use cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl to achieve stable, fluffy peaks that blend seamlessly into the cheesecake filling.
  • Drain excess liquid from canned or fresh cherries to prevent a runny topping that could make the cheesecake soggy.
  • Dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts for clean, beautiful slices that showcase the creamy texture.

Cherry Cheesecake Variations to Explore

  • Gluten-Free Cherry Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Cherry Cheesecake: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut whipped cream, and replace butter with coconut oil.
  • Low-Sugar Cherry Cheesecake: Substitute granulated sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and use sugar-free cherry preserves as topping.
  • Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake: Add cocoa powder to the crust and mix chocolate chips into the filling for a rich, decadent dessert.

Ways to Serve No Bake Cheesecake Beautifully

  • Festive Party Platter: Arrange individual cheesecake slices on a decorative serving board with fresh mint leaves and extra cherries scattered around for a stunning presentation.
  • Sweet Brunch Companion: Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for added texture and elegance during weekend brunches.
  • Dessert Wine Pairing: Complement the cherry cheesecake with a light moscato or sweet riesling to enhance the fruity flavors and create a delightful after-dinner experience.
  • Seasonal Garnish Twist: Top with toasted almond slivers or edible flowers during summer months to elevate the visual appeal and add a gourmet touch to this simple dessert.

Best Storage for No Bake Cherry Cheesecake

  • Store covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Keep the cheesecake flat to maintain its shape and prevent topping from sliding.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
  • Move frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator 6-8 hours before serving. Let it slowly defrost to maintain texture and prevent moisture buildup.
  • Do not reheat this no-bake cheesecake, as warming will change its creamy texture. Serve directly from the refrigerator for the best taste and consistency.

FAQs

  • Is this cheesecake difficult to make?

No, it’s incredibly easy! This no-bake recipe requires no oven and basic ingredients. Even beginner bakers can create a delicious dessert without complex techniques.

  • Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! While graham crackers are traditional, you can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even chocolate cookies for a different flavor profile.

  • How long will this cheesecake stay fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator with a cover, this cheesecake will remain delicious for 3-4 days. Just keep it chilled to maintain its creamy texture and prevent spoiling.

No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Why This Dessert Is Effortless

  • Skip the oven and create a delightful dessert with zero baking skills required, making this recipe perfect for kitchen novices.
  • Minimal ingredients and simple steps mean you can prepare this creamy treat in just a few minutes, perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings.
  • Packed with classic flavors of cream cheese and sweet cherries, this no-bake cheesecake appeals to all ages, from kids to grandparents, making it ideal for family gatherings and potlucks.
  • Swap canned cherries for fresh ones or experiment with different fruit toppings, allowing you to personalize this versatile dessert to your taste preferences.

Ingredients List for No Bake Cherry Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps the crust hold its shape and provides a rich flavor.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its creamy and tangy character.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, silky texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, classic flavor that complements the cream cheese.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a light and airy texture when whipped, making the filling fluffy and delicate.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Cherry Pie Filling, Fresh Cherries: Offers a sweet and tart fruity contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
  • Granulated Sugar (for fresh cherries): Helps draw out the natural juices and enhance the cherry flavor.

Kitchen Tools for No Bake Cheesecake Prep

  • Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining crust ingredients and preparing cheesecake filling.
  • Pie dish or springform pan (9-inch): Perfect for creating and setting the cheesecake.
  • Electric mixer or whisk: Needed for beating cream cheese and whipping cream smoothly.
  • Rubber spatula: Great for folding whipped cream and scraping mixture from bowl sides.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Sharp knife: Used for clean, precise cheesecake slicing.

How to Assemble Cherry Cheesecake Without Baking

Step 1: Create Crumbly Crust Base

Grab a medium bowl and toss in graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

Mix everything until the mixture looks like damp sand.

Press this golden mixture firmly into the bottom of a pie dish or springform pan, creating an even, compact layer.

Pop the crust into the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the creamy filling.

Step 2: Whip Luxurious Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it becomes silky smooth.

Sprinkle in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then blend until the mixture looks perfectly creamy and glossy.

Step 3: Craft Fluffy Whipped Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms beautiful, stiff peaks.

Gently fold this cloud-like whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy filling.

Step 4: Assemble Cheesecake Layers

Spread the dreamy cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust.

Smooth the top with a spatula to create a perfect surface.

Return the cheesecake to the refrigerator and let it set for at least 4 hours.

Step 5: Prepare Cherry Topping

For canned cherry filling, simply spoon it over the chilled cheesecake right before serving.

If using fresh cherries, mix them with a sprinkle of sugar and let them sit for 30 minutes to release their sweet juices.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cheesecake into elegant portions and top each piece with the luscious cherry mixture.

Serve chilled and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight!

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No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe

No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe


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4.5 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (plus 4-6 hours chilling)
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy no-bake cherry cheesecake delights dessert enthusiasts with its silky texture and rich flavor profile. Graham cracker crust and luscious cherry topping provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess for memorable dining experiences.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 oz (454 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 can (15 oz or 425 g) cherry pie filling
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180 g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar

Sweet and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Craft a crumbly foundation by thoroughly blending graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse sand.
  2. Transfer the crust mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing firmly to create a compact, uniform base. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to set.
  3. Using an electric mixer, whip softened cream cheese until silky and lump-free, approximately 2-3 minutes at medium speed.
  4. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the cream cheese, mixing until the texture becomes smooth and creamy.
  5. In a separate chilled bowl, whip heavy cream until it forms stiff, elegant peaks that hold their shape when the whisk is lifted.
  6. Delicately fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, using gentle circular motions to maintain the airiness and prevent deflation.
  7. Carefully spread the light, fluffy filling across the chilled crust, ensuring an even distribution with minimal air pockets.
  8. Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for 4-6 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow complete setting and flavor development.
  9. For canned cherry topping, gently spoon the vibrant filling over the chilled cheesecake just before serving.
  10. Alternatively, macerate fresh cherries with a sprinkle of sugar for 30 minutes to release natural juices, then artfully arrange over each slice.
  11. Serve the cheesecake well-chilled, cutting with a clean, warm knife for pristine slices.

Notes

  • Crust Consistency Matters: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly to create a compact, stable base that won’t crumble when serving.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling that blends perfectly.
  • Whipping Cream Technique: Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, but avoid over-beating, which can make the texture grainy and affect the cheesecake’s silky smoothness.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or ground nuts like almonds for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the same delicious crunch.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 26 g
  • Sodium: 230 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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