If you have a sweet tooth and love rich, luscious desserts that don’t demand hours in the oven, this No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine creamy chocolate cheesecake infused with hints of vanilla and cocoa, nestled atop a buttery chocolate graham cracker crust, then crowned with vibrant, tangy cherry pie filling. This dessert is the perfect harmony of decadence and freshness, making it an absolute showstopper for any occasion. Plus, it requires no baking, which means less time sweating in the kitchen and more time savoring every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a starring role, combining to create that perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the crumbly yet rich crust to the silky, chocolatey filling, each element is essential for crafting this irresistible cheesecake.
- Chocolate graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups): These form the base with a chocolatey crunch that anchors the whole dessert.
- Brown sugar (â…› cup, packed): Adds a hint of caramel sweetness and helps bind the crust.
- Butter (â…“ cup, melted): Gives the crust a rich, buttery depth and helps it set firmly.
- Salt (a pinch for crust, ½ teaspoon for filling): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Cream cheese (16 oz, 2 packages): Brings the creamy base that cheesecake dreams are made of.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and a subtle aromatic note that complements the chocolate.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 pint): Whipped into fluffy perfection to create lightness in the cheesecake filling.
- White sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the chocolate or cherries.
- Cocoa powder (â…“ cup): Infuses the cheesecake with deep, intense chocolate flavor.
- Cherry pie filling (21 oz can): Provides a bright, fruity topping that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate underneath.
How to Make No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Graham Cracker Crust
Start by mixing the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, a pinch of salt, and melted butter in a bowl until evenly combined. The mixture should feel like wet sand. Press this crumbly blend firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, making sure to compact it well—it’s the sturdy foundation your cheesecake needs. Pop the crust into the fridge to chill and firm up while you move on to the filling. This step sets you up for a crust that’s sturdy but still melts in your mouth.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Chocolate Cheesecake Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps—that velvety texture is what you want here. Slowly incorporate the heavy whipping cream, stirring steadily until fully blended and silky. Add in the white sugar, vanilla extract, and the ½ teaspoon of salt, then continue beating until the mixture is fluffy and light. Finally, sift in the cocoa powder a little at a time and stir until the chocolate is fully mingled with the creamy base. This filling is what truly elevates this cheesecake to a rich, dreamy treat everyone will love.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Once your crust has chilled and firmed up nicely, pour the luscious cheesecake filling on top, smoothing it out with a spatula so you get an even layer. Cover the pan and freeze for about 3 hours or refrigerate overnight if you prefer to set it slowly. The cheesecake will firm up perfectly, creating the ideal creamy-yet-set texture that defines this dessert. Patience here really pays off in the end!
Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping and Serve
When the cheesecake has set, remove it from the fridge or freezer and gently spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the entire surface. This sweet and tart topping provides a gorgeous pop of color and flavor that contrasts beautifully with the deep chocolate underneath. Slice and serve this masterpiece to everyone lucky enough to taste it—they’ll be asking for your No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe all year round!
How to Serve No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your cheesecake look as stunning as it tastes, think about adding a few extra touches. Fresh cherries or a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate over the top add elegance and an extra burst of flavor. A dollop of whipped cream on each slice brings lightness, especially if you want to balance the richness. These simple garnishes make your dessert feel special enough for any celebration.
Side Dishes
When serving this cheesecake, consider pairing it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling or a chilled port. The gentle bitterness of coffee or the fruity richness of wine complements the sweetness, enhancing every bite. Alternatively, fresh berries offer a refreshing side that keeps the palate lively and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress even further, try serving individual cheesecake parfaits by layering chunks of the cheesecake with cherry filling in pretty glasses. This way, each portion is perfectly packaged for guests. You can also experiment with using mini springform pans to create single-serving cheesecakes that wow visually and practically. These presentation ideas turn your No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe into a made-to-order experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the party or family gathering, store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to continue melding and deepening. Always cover the surface to protect the cherry topping from drying out and the cheesecake from absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
This cheesecake is perfect for freezing, which is especially handy if you want to prepare it well in advance. Wrap the entire cake securely with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve that perfect creamy texture without any sogginess.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake cheesecake, reheating is not necessary and actually not recommended. The magic of this dessert lies in its cool, creamy texture, so letting it soften at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving is all you need to do. This allows flavors to shine while keeping the delightful firmness intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can give your cheesecake a vibrant, natural sweetness and a bit more texture. Just simmer them with a little sugar and cornstarch to create a thick topping similar to the canned filling for the best results.
Is it necessary to use a springform pan?
While a springform pan makes removing the cheesecake much easier, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper or foil. Just be extra careful when unmolding to maintain the cheesecake’s shape.
Can I make this cheesecake vegan or dairy-free?
With some substitutions like dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream, and a suitable crust alternative, you can create a vegan version. Keep in mind textures and flavors might shift slightly, but it’s totally doable and delicious!
How long does the No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe take to set?
It generally needs about 3 hours in the freezer for a firm set, but refrigerating overnight works just as well if you prefer a softer, creamier texture. Make sure it’s completely chilled before adding the cherry topping for best results.
Can I use a different crust for this cheesecake?
Of course! While the chocolate graham cracker crust complements this recipe perfectly, feel free to experiment with crushed Oreos, chocolate cookies, or even a nut crust for a unique twist. Just adjust the sweetness and butter quantity accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe truly brings the best of both worlds — deep, indulgent chocolate married with bright, luscious cherries — all without ever heating up your kitchen. It’s easy to make, impressive to serve, and delightful to eat. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with the people you love. Once you do, it’ll be a staple dessert you turn to again and again!
Print
No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert that combines a chocolate graham cracker crust with a smooth chocolate-flavored cheesecake filling, topped with sweet cherry pie filling. Perfectly chilled and requiring no baking, it’s an easy yet decadent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- â…› cup packed brown sugar
- â…“ cup butter, melted
- 1 pinch salt
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (2 packages)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup white sugar
- â…“ cup cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Topping:
- 21 oz cherry pie filling (1 can)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Slowly add the heavy whipping cream while continuing to beat, incorporating it thoroughly. Add the white sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat the mixture until smooth and fluffy. Gradually sift and mix in the cocoa powder until fully blended into the filling.
- Assemble and chill: Remove the crust from the fridge and pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over it. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover and place the cheesecake in the freezer for about 3 hours or refrigerate overnight until it is fully set and firm.
- Add the topping and serve: Before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Slice and enjoy this delicious no-bake dessert.
Notes
- For best results, chill the crust thoroughly before adding the filling to ensure it holds together well.
- The cheesecake can be frozen for longer storage; just thaw slightly before serving.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the creamiest texture.
- Make sure to beat the cream cheese until completely smooth to avoid lumps.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with fresh cherries for a fresher topping, but it will change the texture slightly.
