No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you are craving a dessert that screams classic comfort with a fruity twist, this No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust hugging a rich, creamy cheesecake filling topped with luscious cherry pie filling that bursts with sweetness in every bite. Simple enough to whip up in minutes and no oven required, these bars deliver indulgence and freshness perfectly balanced, making them an irresistible summer treat or a delightful anytime dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component is essential, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together to create a show-stopping dessert. From the crunchy crust to the velvety filling and the vibrant cherry topping, every ingredient plays a star role.
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a buttery, crunchy base that holds everything together.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust and adds richness without overpowering the flavor.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps the crust crisp up slightly.
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened): The creamy foundation of the cheesecake filling, delivering smoothness and tang.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling delicately, ensuring no graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold): Whipped to fluffy peaks, it lightens the filling for an airy texture.
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling: Adds that iconic bright red topping packed with juicy, sweet cherries.
How to Make No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Mix until all crumbs are evenly coated and slightly damp, which helps the crust hold its shape. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish to create a solid base. Chilling the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling ensures a sturdy foundation for your bars.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy, free of lumps. This is the heart of your dessert, so taking the time to get it just right makes all the difference.
Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream
In a separate clean bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This fluffy cream is what lightens the richness of the cream cheese, turning your cheesecake filling into something perfectly airy and luscious. Be gentle as you fold it into the cream cheese mixture to keep that fluffy texture intact.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust, making sure every corner is covered. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling over the top, gently spreading it to cover the surface without mixing it into the filling. This layering gives you that beautiful contrast between creamy and fruity layers.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Place the assembled dish in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step lets everything set perfectly, so when you slice into your No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe, the bars hold their shape, and every bite delivers the ideal balance of creaminess and cherry sweetness.
How to Serve No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Add an extra touch of elegance by garnishing with fresh cherries, a sprig of mint, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These simple additions not only enhance the presentation but also bring a fresh contrast to the rich dessert.
Side Dishes
While these bars shine on their own, pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream creates an indulgent dessert experience. For a lighter touch, a fresh mixed berry salad complements the cherry topping beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cheesecake filling in individual dessert cups topped with cherry pie filling and crushed graham crackers sprinkled on top. Another crowd-pleaser is to layer the bars in a trifle dish with alternating layers of whipped cream and cherries, making every bite visually stunning and tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days, keeping their creamy texture and vibrant flavors without drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, it’s best served cold. Avoid reheating to preserve the texture and freshness. Simply take bars out of the refrigerator about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly if desired.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit topping instead of cherry?
Absolutely! This No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is very versatile. You can swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or even mixed berry fillings for a different fruity twist that suits your mood or season.
Do I have to bake the crust?
No baking is required for this recipe, but if you prefer a firmer crust, you can bake the crust at 350°F for 8 minutes and let it cool before adding the filling. This adds a little extra crunch but is completely optional.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut cream. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How long do these bars take to set?
For best results, chill the bars for at least 4 hours. Overnight chilling is ideal to ensure they are fully set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Can I prepare this recipe for a party?
Definitely! This No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a fantastic make-ahead dessert perfect for parties. Just prepare it the day before and let it chill overnight for stress-free entertaining.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and satisfying about a no-bake dessert that feels as special as this No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It combines ease and elegance, making it a must-try treat that tastes like it took hours to perfect but actually comes together with a minimum of fuss. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these luscious bars—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!
Print
No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars, a creamy and fruity dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cream cheese filling and a vibrant cherry pie topping. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you want an easy, no-bake treat that satisfies your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
Topping
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish to form the crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps. In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, combining fully and keeping the mixture light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the creamy cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Carefully spoon and spread the cherry pie filling over the surface, covering it uniformly without mixing the layers.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the filling to set properly and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Once set, slice into 9 bars and serve chilled for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- For a firmer crust, you can bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes before cooling and adding the filling.
- Feel free to swap the cherry pie filling with blueberry or strawberry pie filling for variety.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
