Easiest No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake (Print version)

A creamy no-bake cherry cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, fluffy filling, and glossy cherry pie topping.

# Ingredients:

For the cheesecake

01 - 1 ready-to-use 9-inch (23 cm) graham cracker crust
02 - 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
06 - 8 oz (225 g) frozen whipped topping, thawed
07 - 1 can (21 oz or 595 g) cherry pie filling, chilled

# Instructions:

01 - Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature until soft enough to beat smoothly, about 45 minutes. Do not melt it.
02 - Beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice, then beat until creamy and scrape down the bowl.
03 - Use a spatula to fold in the thawed whipped topping until the filling is even and fluffy. Avoid vigorous stirring.
04 - Spread the filling into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top. Cover loosely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for firmer slices.
05 - Spoon the chilled cherry pie filling over the set cheesecake. Slice with a clean sharp knife and serve cold.

# Good to know:

01 - Chill at least 4 hours before topping for cleaner slices.
02 - Best served cold straight from the refrigerator.
03 - Use a deep-dish crust if you prefer a thicker filling layer.