Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are the ultimate make-ahead dessert—cool, creamy, and full of sweet cherry flavor. Because they’re no-bake, they’re perfect for summer or when you want a quick, foolproof treat. They slice beautifully, are easy to transport, and are always a hit at potlucks, picnics, or family dinners. Plus, the layers provide the perfect contrast of crunch, creaminess, and fruitiness in every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Cream cheese, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy whipping cream
- Cherry pie filling
Directions
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch pan. Place in the fridge to chill while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until 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 fully incorporated.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top and spread gently to cover the surface.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
- Slice into bars and serve chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 9 large or 12 smaller bars. Preparation time is 20 minutes, with at least 4 hours of chilling time. Total time: approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes.
Variations
- Chocolate Crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for a chocolatey twist.
- Fresh Cherries: Replace pie filling with homemade cherry compote or fresh sweet cherries.
- Citrus Kick: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Nutty Base: Mix finely chopped nuts into the crust for added texture and flavor.
- Mini Cups: Make individual servings using cupcake liners for parties or picnics.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen (without the cherry topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before topping with cherries and serving. These bars are best served chilled and should not be left at room temperature for extended periods.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
Do I need to bake the crust?
No baking is needed—just press and chill. The butter firms up in the fridge to hold the crust together.
Can I use homemade cherry topping?
Absolutely. Homemade cherry compote or fresh cherries with a syrup work beautifully.
How long do they need to chill?
At least 4 hours is recommended, but overnight is best for clean slices and firm texture.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making 1–2 days in advance and storing in the fridge until ready to serve.
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
Try vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or crushed pretzels for a different flavor and texture.
How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat, professional-looking bars.
Can I add other fruit toppings?
Yes, blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry toppings are all delicious alternatives.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, but freeze them without the topping. Add the cherries after thawing for best results.
What size pan should I use?
A 9×9-inch square pan works well, but you can use an 8×8-inch pan for thicker bars.
Conclusion
No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, chilled treat that brings all the flavor of a traditional cheesecake with none of the fuss. Whether you’re prepping dessert for a special occasion or just need a simple, satisfying sweet, these bars are sure to impress. Keep this easy recipe on hand for those times when you want big flavor with minimal effort.
PrintNo Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars
No Bake Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, layered dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, and a sweet cherry topping—all without turning on the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake / Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×9-inch pan. Chill while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Spoon cherry pie filling over the top and gently spread it into an even layer.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
- Slice into bars and serve chilled.
Notes
- For clean slices, use a hot knife wiped clean between cuts.
- Freeze without topping for up to 2 months; add cherries after thawing.
- Make 1–2 days ahead for easy entertaining.
- Add lemon zest for a tangy twist or use other fruit toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
