If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s simple to make, this Easiest No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake is the answer. Creamy, tangy, and sweet, it layers a buttery graham cracker crust with a fluffy cream cheese filling and finishes with a vibrant cherry topping. Perfect for holidays, weekend treats, or a last-minute party dessert, it combines indulgent flavors with minimal effort.
The best part? No oven is required. This cheesecake is light, airy, and easy to slice, with a rich cream cheese center that melts in your mouth and cherries that add just the right pop of sweetness. Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, potluck, or just a quiet dessert night, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No-Bake & Easy: No complicated steps or baking required—mix, chill, and serve.
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Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults for its creamy texture and sweet cherry topping.
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Quick Prep: Ready to assemble in less than 30 minutes.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Chill overnight for perfectly set slices.
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Beautiful Presentation: Vibrant cherry topping makes it ideal for parties or special occasions.
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Customizable: Simple swaps allow you to tailor flavors to your liking.
Ingredient Breakdown
Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 ½ cups): Forms the buttery, crunchy crust that supports the creamy filling.
Granulated Sugar (â…“ cup): Sweetens the crust and balances the tartness of the cherries.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): Binds the crust and adds richness.
Cream Cheese (16 oz, softened): Provides the smooth, tangy base of the cheesecake filling.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling without making it grainy.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and enhances the creamy flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup, cold): Whipped into peaks to create a light, airy texture.
Cherry Pie Filling (21 oz can): Adds sweetness, color, and a classic cherry flavor to finish the cheesecake.
Milk (for folding pudding if used): Optional for stabilizing the filling if making a thicker variant.
Pro Tips
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Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure cream cheese is room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
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Whip Cream Properly: Use cold cream and beat until stiff peaks form for a fluffy texture.
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Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the cheesecake to set overnight improves texture and makes slicing cleaner.
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Press Crust Firmly: A well-packed crust prevents crumbling when serving.
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Slice Cleanly: Dip a knife in hot water and wipe between cuts for perfect slices.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
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Berry Swap: Use blueberry or raspberry pie filling instead of cherry for a fruity twist.
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Chocolate Lovers: Spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache over the crust before adding the filling.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pecans or almonds on the crust or topping for added texture.
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Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual cheesecakes in ramekins or cupcake liners for single servings.
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Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar substitutes in the crust and filling for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesecake shines on its own but can be elevated for special occasions. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, or alongside fresh berries. For parties, place on a decorative cake stand to showcase its vibrant cherry topping. Pair with coffee, tea, or a sweet dessert for a complete treat.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Prepare Ahead: Make the cheesecake a day in advance and let it chill overnight for best results.
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Refrigeration: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Freeze individual slices or the whole cheesecake for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
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Transporting: Use a springform pan to easily transport to gatherings without disturbing the structure.
Cultural or Historical Notes
No-bake cheesecakes are an American classic, ideal for busy kitchens where ease and flavor meet. Cherry-topped cheesecakes have been popular since the mid-20th century, often served at family gatherings and holiday meals. This simplified version takes inspiration from traditional recipes while offering a quick, weeknight-friendly twist without compromising flavor or texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this cheesecake in a regular pie dish instead of a springform pan?
Yes, a standard 9-inch pie dish works perfectly; slices may be slightly less uniform.
Q2: How long should I chill the cheesecake for the best texture?
At least 4 hours is needed, but overnight chilling gives the best set and clean slices.
Q3: Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?
Yes, whipped topping can substitute for whipped cream, though the texture will be slightly lighter.
Q4: Can I substitute a different crust?
Yes, a chocolate cookie crust or crushed shortbread will work and add unique flavor.
Q5: Can this cheesecake be frozen?
Yes, wrap tightly in plastic and foil; freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Easiest No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until fluffy.
- Spread cheesecake filling evenly over the crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Once set, spread cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake.
- Slice and serve chilled.