Creamy, sweet, and bursting with cherries—this classic no-bake dessert is a hit at every gathering. No oven needed, just chill and enjoy!
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 12 squares
- Dietary Tags: Vegetarian, Egg-Free
✅ Ingredients Checklist
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Melted butter
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Vanilla extract
- Canned cherry pie filling
📋 Instructions
-
Make the crust:
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until fully combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form an even layer. Chill while making the filling. -
Prepare the filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then fold in the whipped topping until well-blended. -
Assemble the layers:
Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. -
Add the topping:
Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream layer and gently spread it to cover the surface completely. -
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the dessert to set. -
Serve:
Slice into squares and serve chilled. Store leftovers in the fridge.
💡 Notes & Tips
- For best flavor and texture, chill overnight.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest result.
- This dessert is naturally egg-free and vegetarian.
🎉 A Quick & Creamy Crowd-Pleaser
This easy no-bake cherry cheesecake bar recipe is the ultimate quick dessert fix. It’s perfect for summer potlucks, holiday dinners, or anytime you want something sweet and satisfying without turning on the oven. It’s one of those desserts that never goes out of style—classic, comforting, and always the first to disappear from the table.
Confession: I may have eaten two slices before even finishing this blog post.
📸 Step-by-Step Photo Guide
Step 1: Make the Crust
Press your graham cracker and butter mixture evenly into the dish. It should be firm and slightly crumbly.
Tip: Use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press the crust evenly and firmly.
Step 2: Whip the Filling
Beat the cream cheese until fluffy, then add sugar, vanilla, and whipped topping. The texture should be silky smooth.
Tip: Let cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Layer and Chill
Spread the creamy filling over the crust and top with cherry pie filling. Chill for at least 4 hours.
Tip: Don’t skip the chilling—this step ensures clean, neat slices and the perfect bite.
🛒 Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Why These Ingredients Work:
- Cream cheese: Provides that classic cheesecake tang and richness.
- Whipped topping: Lightens the filling and keeps the texture fluffy.
- Graham cracker crust: Buttery and crisp, the perfect base for a creamy dessert.
Substitution Options:
- Whipped topping: Substitute with homemade whipped cream (1 cup heavy cream + 2 tbsp sugar, whipped to stiff peaks).
- Cherry topping: Try blueberry, strawberry, or lemon pie filling instead.
- Graham crackers: Use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers if preferred.
Equipment Tips:
- No mixer? Use a strong whisk and some elbow grease!
- No 9×13 dish? Use two 8×8 dishes or halve the recipe for a single 8×8.
🌀 Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Variations:
- Chocolate Cherry: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the crust, and drizzle melted chocolate on top.
- Tropical Twist: Use crushed pineapple and coconut flakes as a topping instead of cherries.
Dietary Swaps:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookie crumbs.
- Low Sugar: Use sugar-free pie filling and light whipped topping.
How to Serve:
- Garnish with fresh mint or white chocolate shavings.
- Serve with coffee or sparkling rosé for a classy touch.
❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Make Ahead: Perfect for prepping a day ahead. Keeps its shape and flavor wonderfully.
Note: After a couple of days, the crust may soften slightly, but it still tastes great!
🧾 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 34g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 3g
- Allergens: Contains dairy and gluten
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use homemade cherry topping?
A: Absolutely! Just let it cool fully before adding it to the dessert.
Q: Can I make this in a round springform pan?
A: Yes, but it may be harder to serve clean slices. A rectangular dish is best for bars.
Q: Can I skip the whipped topping?
A: You can use freshly whipped cream instead, but the texture may be slightly denser.
Q: Why is my filling runny?
A: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened and well-beaten, and don’t skip the chilling time.
❤️ Behind the Recipe
This recipe is a nostalgic favorite I’ve been making since college. It was one of the first desserts I brought to a potluck—and I’ve never left a party with leftovers since. Over time, I’ve perfected the balance of creamy filling to tart cherries and crunchy crust. It’s a dessert that never fails to win hearts.
💬 Let’s Connect!
Tried these cherry cheesecake bars?
Leave a comment below, rate the recipe ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, or share your own twist on it!
