Description
These No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars offer a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer atop a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with sweet cherry pie filling. Easy to prepare with no oven required, they’re perfect for a refreshing dessert that’s ready in just a few hours of chilling.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 9 graham crackers (1 sleeve)
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened, 2 (8 ounce) packages)
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Topping
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Place the graham crackers in a food processor or blender and pulse into fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs into a medium mixing bowl and combine with the melted butter and granulated sugar until evenly mixed.
- Line the pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang on the sides to help remove the bars easily later.
- Form the crust: Pour the graham cracker crumb mixture into the lined pan and press it down firmly and evenly to form the crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill and set while preparing the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the Cool Whip, powdered sugar, and lemon juice, then beat again until all ingredients are well combined and fluffy. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Chill for 5 minutes to set slightly.
- Add the cherry topping: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer. Cover the cheesecake bars with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the dessert to fully set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake slab from the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into 9 equal squares. Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use softened cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
- Chilling the bars overnight can enhance the flavor and firmness even more.
- Make sure to press the crust firmly to prevent it from crumbling when slicing.
- This recipe can be customized with other pie fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or peach.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
