Ingredients
Scale
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 sheets)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
- Optional: Fresh cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Making the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan or pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Preparing the Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated. Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Adding the Cherry Topping: Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. For a homemade touch, simmer fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and cornstarch to create a glossy compote. Smooth the topping with a spatula for an elegant finish.
- Chilling the Cheesecake: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set. Garnish with fresh cherries before serving if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookie crumbs.
- Vegan alternative: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese, whipped coconut cream, and vegan butter.
- Storage tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze slices for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of the cheesecake)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg