Name: Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 9 graham cracker sheets (one sleeve); ½ cup melted butter; 1 tablespoon sugar; 16 ounces cream cheese, softened; 8 ounces Cool Whip; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 21 ounces cherry pie filling

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Introduction

This Cherry Cheesecake is a no-bake delight that’s creamy, sweet, and topped with luscious cherries. Perfect for a quick dessert that feels special without the oven time.

A close-up of a square cherry dessert with three visible layers: the bottom layer is a light brown crumbly crust, the middle layer is thick and white with a smooth creamy texture, and the top layer is a glossy bright red cherry topping with whole cherries covered in thick syrup, some syrup dripping onto the white plate below, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

9 graham cracker sheets (one sleeve)
½ cup melted butter
1 tablespoon sugar
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
8 ounces Cool Whip
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
21 ounces cherry pie filling

Instructions

Step 1: Place graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed into crumbs.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until combined.
Step 3: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan. Place in the refrigerator to chill.
Step 4: In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, Cool Whip, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return to the refrigerator for about 5 minutes to set.
Step 6: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, gently spreading to cover the entire surface.
Step 7: Chill the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours to allow it to firm up. Slice and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust mixture.
Use fresh cherries or other fruit preserves instead of cherry pie filling for a different flavor.
To make it vegan, substitute cream cheese and Cool Whip with plant-based alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, allow it to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a dessert in a dark square pan showing three clear layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown crust; the middle layer is a thick, smooth and creamy white filling; the top layer is glossy and bright red with whole cherries covered in a shiny glaze. A white plastic spatula with some dessert crumbs rests inside the pan next to the cut section. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, making it ahead is ideal. It needs at least 4 hours to set, so preparing it the day before ensures the best texture and flavor.

Can I use a different crust?

Absolutely! You can use crushed vanilla wafers, chocolate cookies, or a prepared graham cracker crust to suit your taste.