Mamaw’s No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Introduction
Mamaw’s no-bake cherry cheesecake is a delightful and easy dessert that brings the warmth of family gatherings to your table. This recipe skips the oven but still delivers a creamy, rich texture that everyone loves. Perfect for holidays or any sweet craving, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (or freshly whipped cream)
- 1 can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Step 1: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan or pie dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Step 2: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gently fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
- Step 4: Spoon cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer, spreading evenly.
- Step 5: Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Tips & Variations
- Refrigerate overnight for the creamiest, firmest texture.
- Use freshly whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping for a lighter texture.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For a chocolate cherry twist, add a melted chocolate layer to the crust before filling.
- Swap cherry topping for mixed berry compote or lemon curd for different flavors.
Storage
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days to keep it fresh. You can freeze the cheesecake without the cherry topping; once thawed, add the topping before serving. Always serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake without a graham cracker crust?
Yes! You can use alternatives like an Oreo crust or digestive biscuits based on your preference.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill?
It should chill for at least 4 hours, but chilling overnight results in the best texture.
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Mamaw’s No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Mamaw’s No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake is a classic, creamy dessert that combines a crunchy graham cracker crust with a smooth cream cheese filling topped with sweet cherry pie filling. This no-bake recipe is perfect for quick preparation, ideal for busy schedules or festive occasions, and offers a nostalgic taste reminiscent of cherished family gatherings.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (or freshly whipped cream)
Cherry Topping:
- 1 can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Making the Graham Cracker Crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan or pie dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the crust properly.
- Preparing the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing continuously until fully combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping or freshly whipped cream until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Assembling the Cheesecake: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
- Adding the Cherry Topping: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Chilling the Cheesecake: Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set and develop a firmer, creamier texture.
Notes
- For the best texture, chill the cheesecake overnight instead of the minimum 4 hours.
- Use freshly whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping for a lighter and airier filling.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps in the filling.
- Optional variations include adding a melted chocolate layer to the crust or swapping cherry topping for mixed berry or lemon curd to diversify flavors.
- Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days to maintain freshness.
- To freeze, omit the cherry topping, freeze the cheesecake, then add topping after thawing for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: no-bake cheesecake, cherry cheesecake recipe, easy no-bake cheesecake, creamy cherry cheesecake, no-bake dessert
