A classic dessert, this no-bake cherry cheesecake is perfect for summer picnics and potlucks. This cheesecake has a graham cracker crust, creamy no bake cheesecake layer, and cherry pie filling on top.
There’s no end to the cheesecake possibilities and I’m happy to share them all as I make them!
We’ve already enjoyed this no bake blueberry cheesecake and the no bake raspberry cheesecake. Today is all about the classic cherry topped cheesecake.
How to make no bake cherry cheesecake
This recipe is an old fashioned classic. You can find it made in a pie form, but I like to make mine in a 9×13 pan and then cut into bars. It feeds a crowd that way, about 15 people.
Start by making the crust. I have a post and recipe all about making the best no bake graham cracker crust so be sure to check that out before beginning. It’s a standard graham cracker crust, except with a bit more butter to hold it together since it’s not being baked.
Once you have the crust pressed into the pan, refrigerate it while you make the filling. You’ll want your cream cheese to be at room temperature so set it out a couple hours before starting.
You’ll beat together the cream cheese and sugar in a mixer till smooth. Then beat in the milk and vanilla. For the recipe you can use either cool whip or heavy whipping cream.
If you choose to use heavy whipping cream, you’ll need to whip it in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form.
I use either one depending on what I have on hand and how much time I have. Cool Whip is faster just to fold in, but you have to remember to thaw it first.
Once the cool whip or whipping cream is added, scoop the cheesecake filling gently on the crust and spread. Then, chill for 4-6 hours.
Make ahead no bake cherry cheesecake
This is a great dessert to make ahead because chilling for longer is better, it will keep in the fridge for several days.
So go ahead and make it several days before you want to serve it, just don’t add the cherry filling until serving time.
When ready to serve top with cherry pie filling and serve.
How To Slice Cheesecake
Here’s a quick tip for cutting the perfect squares: Wash or wipe clean your knife between every slice.
Getting the first piece out of the pan is always a bit harry for me, but the rest of the pieces usually come out cleanly.
Try these other favorite no bake cheesecake recipes from my blog
We love this dessert in the summer, and I’m sure you will too. If you make this recipe, let me know how you liked it. Leave me a comment below or give it a rating in the recipe card. Happy Baking (or No Baking 🙂 )
No Bake Cherry Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs finely crushed (about 9-10 sheets)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake
- 11 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 16 ounces 1 large container Cool Whip or 4 cups of homemade sweetened whipped cream. (4 cups whipped)
- 1 large can cherry pie filling or about 2 cups homemade
Instructions
- Start by making the crust. Stir together the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9 x 13 baking dish. Refrigerate while you make the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in the Cool Whip or whipped cream. Carefully spread on top of the crust, being careful not to break it.
- Chill for at least 6 hours or up to several days before serving. Before serving, top with the cherry pie filling. Store in the refrigerator. Best eaten within a few days.
Notes
Nutrition
{originally published 7/31/19 – recipe notes and photos updated 1/12/21}
If you like Cherry Recipes, check out a few more cherry recipes!
And don’t miss this chocolate cherry cheesecake from the First Year Blog!
Toni says
I loved how easy this is to make! It was so good!
Laura Reese says
This was my favorite dessert growing up.
Melissa Moore says
I made this and it turned out kinda runny. Very good flavoring. I can’t figure out what I did wrong. Again very good flavoring
Judy says
This is so easy to make and delicious!! My family loves it, they can’t leave it alone.