NO BAKE Cherry Cheesecakes

What you’ll need

To make these delightful cheesecakes, gather the following ingredients:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons sugar
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Feel free to substitute crushed cookies for graham crackers, or use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version!

Directions to follow

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of six individual serving glasses or ramekins to form the crust. Place them in the refrigerator to chill.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s fully combined and smooth.
Spoon the cream cheese filling over the chilled graham cracker crusts, dividing it evenly among the cups.
Refrigerate the cheesecakes for at least 4 hours or until set.
Before serving, top each cheesecake with cherry pie filling or fresh cherries and garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

These NO BAKE Cherry Cheesecakes are perfect on their own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your presentation! Consider serving them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, a sprinkle of crushed nuts, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch. Pair with a refreshing beverage, like lemon-lime soda or sweet iced tea, to balance the richness of the cheesecake beautifully.

How to store & freeze

To keep your NO BAKE Cherry Cheesecakes fresh, store them in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. They will last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save them for a later date, you can freeze the cheesecakes (without the cherry topping) for up to 2 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight.

Helpful cooking tips

If you want a firmer cheesecake, consider adding a little gelatin to your cream cheese mixture.
Always beat your heavy cream thoroughly until stiff peaks form; this gives the cheesecake a light and airy texture.
For a decorative touch, freeze some cherries in advance and use them as a fun garnish.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you might try:

Berry Medley: Swap cherries for a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a colorful twist.
Chocolate Lover’s: Add melted chocolate to your cream cheese mixture for a rich, chocolate cheesecake base.
Zesty Option: Incorporate lemon or lime zest for a citrusy flavor that beautifully complements the cherries.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for these cheesecakes?

The total prep time is about 20 minutes, but you need to account for refrigerating time, which is at least 4 hours.

Can I use other fruit fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings such as strawberry, blueberry, or even a tropical mango topping.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can! Look for dairy-free cream cheese and substitutes for the heavy cream, such as coconut cream, to make a delicious dairy-free version.