Description
These No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer and luscious cherry pie filling. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a refreshing, fruity treat without using the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Topping
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is well combined and crumbly. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to set.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer or whisk. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix thoroughly until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Incorporate whipped topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate it. Fold until the mixture is light, fluffy, and evenly blended.
- Assemble the bars: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon for a smooth layer.
- Add the cherry topping: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer and spread gently without mixing to maintain the distinct layers.
- Chill to set: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the cheesecake layer to firm up and flavors to meld.
- Serve: After chilling, remove the bars from the refrigerator and slice into 9 equal pieces. Serve chilled and enjoy this creamy, fruity dessert.
Notes
- For a firmer and crunchier crust, you can bake the crust at 350°F for 8 minutes prior to assembling the cheesecake filling. Allow the crust to cool completely before spreading the filling.
- The cherry pie filling can be substituted with blueberry, strawberry, or any preferred fruit topping for variation.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smoother texture in the filling.
- Use parchment paper in the baking dish for easy removal and cleanup.
