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Published: May 1, 2023 · Modified: Nov 30, 2024 by Natalie Booras · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Pie

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This delicious Easy No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Pie goes by many names - No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie, No Bake Cherry Pie with graham cracker crust, and Cherry Cheese Pie are just a few.

One of the reasons that I think it has so many names is because this delicious dessert is the perfect marriage between a traditional pie and a no-bake cheesecake and people just can't decide what to call it. 

However, unlike a traditional pie with a pastry crust, No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Pie features a graham cracker crust instead and has a creamy cheesecake filling.

This cherry delight recipe is one of my favorite no bake desserts, and just like my Lemon Cheesecake Pie and my Banana Pudding with Cream Cheese,  it is a classic crowd-pleaser.

A slice of easy no bake cherry pie with a fork-marked filling.

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Why You'll Love This No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
  • What's the Difference Between a No Bake Cheesecake Pie and a No-Bake Cheesecake?
  • Substitutions
  • Variations
  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Storage and Freezing
  • Natalie's Pro Tip
  • Notes and FAQs
  • No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Pie
    • Equipment
    • Ingredients  1x2x3x
    • Instructions 
    • Notes
  • Storage and Freezing
    • Nutrition

Why You'll Love This No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe

  • Simple ingredients and minimal effort - With just SIX ingredients, this no bake cherry cheesecake dessert will be chilling in your fridge in no time flat! Making the filling is as easy as combining everything and pouring it into a pre-made graham cracker pie crust.
  • It's No Bake - The best part is that this is a no bake recipe and doesn't require you to turn on the oven. You can make this delicious dessert during the summer months and top it with fresh fruit or pie filling, as written.
  • It's Gorgeous - When served topped with vibrant cherry pie filling, this no-bake cherry cream cheese pie makes a beautiful presentation. It is the perfect dessert for special occasions. Even though it is a great summertime recipe, the cherry topping on this pie has the perfect Christmasy red color, and it's always a crowd-pleaser at holiday family gatherings. Additionally, you won't have to worry about baking your dessert when everyone is jockeying for oven space.
The easy no bake cherry pie with graham cracker crust showing a slice taken out of it.

What's the Difference Between a No Bake Cheesecake Pie and a No-Bake Cheesecake?

In addition to different main ingredients proportions, and crust ingredients, one of the biggest differences between a cheesecake pie and a traditional no-bake cheesecake is the texture of the filling. A no-bake cheesecake has a filling that is denser and thicker, resembling a traditional baked cheesecake.  

A cream cheesecake pie has a texture that is similar to a mousse or pudding. However, for our recipe, we've included some ingredients that help the cream cheese pie maintain its structure. When it's cut, it can be served like a piece of pie, and it will hold its shape. 

The other main difference is how the desserts are served. A no bake cheesecake pie is served in a pie plate or tart pan and is cut and served more like a traditional pie. A traditional no bake cheesecake recipe usually requires a springform pan, allowing for the removal of the sides. 

A piece of cherry cheesecake pie on a plate with a fork. There is another plated piece of dessert in the background.

Substitutions

  • Prefer a homemade graham cracker crust?
    • Place 12 full graham crackers sheets and ¼ cup of granulated sugar into a food processor and pulse until fine crumbs are formed.
    • Drizzle in 6 Tablespoons of melted butter and pulse until combined.
    • Press the graham cracker mixture into a 9-inch pie plate. Bake the crust for 10 minutes at 350 or chill until the melted butter is cold and holds the crust together.
  • Using Graham cracker crumbs - You will need about 1 ½ cups of ready-made crumbs to make the crust.
  • Other cookies for the crust - You can use crushed cookies for an Oreo crust. Or use vanilla wafers or gingersnaps for a flavorful twist.
  • Pick your favorite pie filling! Since the cheesecake filling is pretty much a blank slate, instead of a can of cherry pie filling, pick whatever topping you fancy. Blueberry or strawberry would be delicious as well.

Variations

  • Serve it plain - If you'd prefer to skip the ready-made pie filling, you could make your own homemade cherry pie filling or even top the dessert with fresh berries and whipped cream.
  • 9"x13" Pan - If you prefer to serve this dessert in squares or you are making a dessert for a large group, you can make this cherry cream cheese pie recipe in a 9"x13" baking dish. Make the homemade buttery graham cracker crust by following the directions in the substitution section above. Press the crust firmly into the bottom of the baking dish and bake. Cool completely before spreading the filling on top of the crust. Refrigerate as directed.
  • Mini Cheesecakes - This easy dessert recipe can also be made in mini single servings by lining a mini muffin tin with liners. Add about 1 Tablespoon of the homemade graham cracker crust mixture into each well and press firmly with a spice jar or tart shaper. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely before adding 1-2 Tablespoons of filling to each well. Refrigerate as directed. Spoon a little cherry pie filling on top of each mini cheesecake before serving.

Ingredients

All the ingredients that are needed to make the no bake cherry pie with graham cracker crust, including a pre-made graham cracker crust, cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, cherry pie filling, lemon juice, and cool whip.

*For specific ingredient amounts, please scroll down to the recipe card.

Instructions

Step 1. Make The Filling. In a large bowl, blend softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Then add sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice and mix until combined.

Step 2. Add the Cool Whip. Fold in the Cool Whip with a rubber spatula.

Step 3. Fill The Pie Crust. Pour the cream cheese mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust and spread into an even layer.

Step 4. Chill. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 5. Top and Serve. Right before serving, spoon the cherry filling on top of the entire pie.

The steps to complete this recipe include: beating the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together with an electric mixer, folding in the cool whip, pouring the filling into the  crust and topping with the pie filling after the pie has been chilled.

Storage and Freezing

Store this classic dessert in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 5 days. The crust may become softer, and the filling may lose some of its creamy texture and flavor. Therefore, it's best to enjoy the cream cheese pie within a few days.

This no bake cherry cheesecake can be frozen before topping it with pie filling.  Freeze the entire cheesecake by placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To freeze individual slices, cut the cheesecake pie, freeze it until solid, and then wrap the individual slices in plastic wrap. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. 

Natalie's Pro Tip

You can spoon the topping over individual slices as they're served instead of spreading it over the entire cheesecake. This will help the filling maintain its texture for a longer period of time if there are leftovers.

To prevent lumps, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature
 before mixing. Beat the cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients.

A bite of cherry cheesecake loaded onto a fork.

Notes and FAQs

How long can this dessert sit out at room temperature?

A no-bake cheesecake should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.  it's best to keep it chilled until just before serving and then return any leftovers to the refrigerator as soon as possible. This will help maintain the quality and freshness of the cheesecake.

Can I make a graham cracker crust?

Yes! See the substitution section above for tips on making a homemade crust.

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?

I only use full-fat cream cheese
 when I make this dessert. To make this cream cheese layer
 truly decadent, we do not recommend using fat-free cream cheese.

What is the purpose of fresh lemon juice?

It brightens the flavor and gives the cream cheese filling
 a tangy taste.

How long does it take to set?

A no-bake cheesecake pie typically needs at least 4–6 hours in the refrigerator to set properly, but overnight chilling is best for a firm, sliceable consistency. Be sure to allow enough time for it to chill before serving.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! No-bake cheesecake pies are great for making ahead of time. You can prepare the pie up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip! Simply whip heavy whipping cream with a little powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. It gives the cheesecake a fresher flavor and lighter texture. Just be sure to fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture to maintain its airy consistency.

A piece of no bake cherry pie plated.

No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Pie

This no-bake cherry cheesecake pie comes together in no time with just six ingredients. It has a creamy filling and is a gorgeous dessert that's perfect for special occasions.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Chilling time 4 hours hrs
Total Time 4 hours hrs 5 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 2 kcal

Equipment

  • hand mixer
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Lemon juicer optional
  • Food processor (only if making a homemade graham cracker crust)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 10-inch pre-made graham cracker crust
  • 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 Tablespoon lemon juice or juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 8-ounce container cool whip thawed
  • 1 15-ounce can of cherry pie filling

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and lemon juice with a hand mixer until smooth.
  • Fold in the cool whip.
  • Pour the cream cheese mixture into the pie crust and spread it into an even layer.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • Right before serving, spoon the cherry filling on top of the pie.

Notes

Storage and Freezing

Store this classic dessert in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 5 days. The crust may become softer, and the filling may lose some of its creamy texture and flavor. Therefore, it's best to enjoy the cream cheese pie within a few days.
This no-bake cherry cheesecake can be frozen before topping it with pie filling. Place the entire cheesecake in an airtight container or freezer bag. To freeze individual slices, cut the cheesecake pie, freeze it until solid, and then wrap the slices in plastic wrap. The cheesecake will keep for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. 
Natalie's Pro Tip:
You can spoon the topping over individual slices as they're served instead of spreading it over the entire cheesecake. This will help the filling maintain its texture for a longer period if there are leftovers.
To prevent lumps, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature
 before mixing. Beat the cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients.
See the blog post for more tips and tricks.

Nutrition

Calories: 2kcalCarbohydrates: 0.4gProtein: 0.1gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.03gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.003gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 0.1mgSodium: 3mgPotassium: 3mgFiber: 0.01gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 1IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 0.01mg
Keyword cherry delight recipe, no bake cherry cheesecake pie, no bake cherry cream cheese pie, no bake cherry pie with graham cracker crust
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Greta says

    November 14, 2024 at 11:32 pm

    5 stars
    Delish -almost like the one my mother used to make when I was growing up.

    Reply
    • Natalie Booras says

      February 01, 2025 at 2:07 pm

      Thanks for taking the time to comment, Greta. I'm glad it brought back fond memories for you.

      Reply
5 from 1 vote

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