Description
These No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer and vibrant cherry pie filling. Perfect for gatherings or a quick treat, they require no oven time and can be prepared in under 15 minutes, then chilled until set.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip
Topping
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: Microwave the butter for about 30 seconds or until completely melted, ensuring it’s liquid for easy mixing.
- Prepare the Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and granulated sugar, mixing until the texture resembles wet sand, which will allow the crust to hold together once pressed.
- Form the Crust: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish to form a solid crust layer.
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, creating a perfect base for the filling.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth, sweetening the cheesecake layer.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture, keeping it light and fluffy for a creamy texture.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, ensuring a uniform layer.
- Add Cherry Topping: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer to add a fruity finish.
- Chill the Bars: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bars to set properly.
- Serve: After chilling, slice the cheesecake into squares and serve cold for a refreshing dessert.
Notes
- For best results, soften the cream cheese to room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Use a spatula or back of a spoon to press the crust firmly and evenly.
- Covering the bars while chilling prevents them from absorbing refrigerator odors.
- The bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a stronger cherry flavor, gently stir some of the cherry juice into the cream cheese filling.
