If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels both decadent and effortless, you’ll adore this No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe. It brings together the rich creaminess of softened cream cheese mingled with the bright zing of fresh lemon juice, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped off with a vibrant, glossy cherry filling, this pie is a showstopper for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. Best of all, it requires no oven time, making it a perfect treat when you want something quick yet incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver a luscious texture and irresistible flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the graham crackers providing a crisp base, the cream cheese lending smooth richness, or the cherry topping adding that classic burst of sweetness and color.
- Graham cracker sheets or crumbs: A sturdy, buttery foundation that offers a delightful crunch to contrast the creamy filling.
- Sugar: Just enough to sweeten the crust and balance the tanginess of the lemon and cream cheese.
- Salt: A pinch to enhance all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
- Butter: Melted and mixed into the crust to bind the crackers and add a rich, savory depth.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling, softened to give the pie its dreamy, velvety texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness along with an indulgently creamy body to the filling.
- Lemon zest (optional): Brightens the flavor and adds a fresh citrus aroma.
- Lemon juice: Provides the perfect tang that cuts through the richness and lifts the entire pie.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, mellow note.
- Cherry pie filling: The crowning glory, chilled and full of juicy, vibrant cherries to make this pie irresistibly pretty and tasty.
How to Make No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by finely crushing the graham cracker sheets, either by hand or with a food processor, until you have about 1 and 1/2 cups of crumbs. Mix these crumbs with the sugar and salt, then stir in melted butter until every bit is moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of your pie dish, creating a solid, even crust. Pop it into the fridge to set while you prepare the filling. This chilling step helps the crust hold together without baking.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to mix until well combined. For a subtle citrusy zing, fold in the lemon zest and lemon juice, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure to mix gently but thoroughly – this filling should be silky and thick, ready to spread over your chilled crust.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill the Pie
Pour the luscious cream cheese mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate this for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight to allow the pie to fully set. When it’s firm and ready, generously spoon the chilled cherry pie filling on top, spreading it out to cover the entire surface with those juicy, jewel-like cherries.
How to Serve No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the look and add a subtle flavor twist, consider topping your pie with a few fresh mint leaves or a light sprinkle of finely chopped nuts like toasted almonds or pecans. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add a lovely visual contrast and a touch of extra sweetness. These simple garnishes make the pie feel even more special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This pie stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to turn it into a delightful dessert spread, pair it with lightly whipped cream or fresh seasonal berries. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside adds a cold, creamy complement that makes every bite feel like a little celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve individual slices of this No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe in clear dessert cups, layering crust, filling, and cherries for a modern parfait-style look. You can also use mini tart pans for bite-sized portions perfect for parties. Either way, presentation adds a fun element to enjoying this already fantastic dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pie should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld a bit more after resting, so if anything, it gets tastier!
Freezing
If you want to freeze the pie, it’s best to do so before adding the cherry topping. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then spread the cherry filling fresh just before serving to maintain its juicy texture.
Reheating
This pie is best enjoyed cold and doesn’t require reheating. Warm temperatures will soften the crust and affect the texture of the cream cheese filling, so always serve chilled for the perfect bite every time.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit topping instead of cherries?
Absolutely! This No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe is very versatile. Blueberries, raspberries, or even a mixed berry medley work wonderfully as a topping and add their own unique flair.
Is there a way to make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting the cream cheese and condensed milk with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese and sweetened coconut condensed milk, you can make a vegan-friendly version, though it may alter the texture slightly.
How long does it take for the pie to set properly in the fridge?
For the ideal firm and sliceable texture, refrigerate the pie at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is recommended. This allows the filling to fully thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I prepare this pie without the lemon juice and zest?
Yes, while lemon adds a lovely brightness that balances the sweetness, you can skip it if you prefer a milder flavor. The pie will still be delicious and creamy.
What’s the best way to slice this pie cleanly?
To get perfect slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then cut. Repeat warming the knife between cuts to prevent the filling from sticking and achieve smooth edges.
Final Thoughts
This No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe has become such a favorite because it’s fuss-free yet irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day, it never disappoints. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and fall in love with this wonderfully creamy, fruity delight.
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No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for crust preparation including melting butter and mixing)
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No Bake Cherry Cream Cheese Pie is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that features a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy lemon-infused filling, and a sweet cherry topping. Perfect for warm days or when you want a quick pie without using the oven, this pie combines tangy lemon flavors with the richness of cream cheese and the sweetness of cherry pie filling.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 9 whole graham cracker sheets (or 1 & 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 7 tablespoons butter
For the Filling
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- Zest from 1 lemon (optional)
- 1/3 cup lemon juice (fresh is best)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1 (21-oz) can cherry pie filling (chilled)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Crush the graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs if not using pre-crumbed graham crackers. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Melt the butter and combine it thoroughly with the crumb mixture until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate to form the crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to mix until well combined. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the filling is silky and uniform in texture.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the cream cheese filling into the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.
- Add the topping and serve: Once the pie filling is fully set, spoon the chilled cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the pie. Keep the pie refrigerated until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy this refreshing no-bake cherry cream cheese pie.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh lemon juice to brighten the filling flavor.
- You can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit toppings such as blueberry or strawberry if preferred.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Allow ample chilling time (at least 4 hours) for the filling to set firmly before serving.
- This pie should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
