No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait Recipe

Introduction

This Easy No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Parfait (5-Min Prep!) is the ultimate quick dessert. With no oven required, it layers creamy cheesecake filling, sweet cherry topping, and crunchy graham crackers for a perfect treat. It’s ideal for busy days or last-minute guests. For another simple no-bake delight, try the Strawberry Earthquake Cake Recipe.

Ingredients

This easy no bake cheesecake parfait with cherry pie filling layers a buttery graham cracker crust with a lusciously tangy, creamy filling and sweet-tart cherries for a dessert that’s irresistibly smooth and satisfying.

• 1 1/2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 7 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes (plus chilling)

Context: This No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling comes together in about half the time of a traditional baked cheesecake, making it a perfect quick dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust Layer

Combine finely crushed graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. This buttery base will provide the essential crunch in your parfait.

Tip: For a firmer layer, lightly press the crumbs into the bottom of your serving glasses before adding other ingredients.

Step 2 — Make the No-Bake Cheesecake Filling

Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl until completely smooth and lump-free. This is crucial for a silky texture.

Gently fold in whipped cream or whipped topping until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the filling light and airy.

Step 3 — Layer the Parfait Base

Begin assembling in clear glasses or jars. Add a layer of the graham cracker mixture, then a generous layer of the cheesecake filling. Use a spoon or piping bag for neat, even layers.

Tip: Chilling the glasses for 10 minutes before assembling helps the layers set more distinctly.

Step 4 — Add the Cherry Pie Filling

Spoon a layer of cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. You can use canned filling or a quick homemade version with fresh or frozen cherries simmered with a little sugar and cornstarch.

For a beautiful presentation, let some cherries drape over the side of the glass.

Step 5 — Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layering sequence—graham crumbs, cheesecake filling, cherry topping—until the glass is nearly full. Finish with a final dollop of cheesecake filling or a cherry on top.

Ending with a clean topping layer creates a canvas for garnishes.

Step 6 — Chill to Set

Cover the parfaits loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up perfectly.

Doneness cue: The parfait should be cold throughout, and the layers should hold their shape when the glass is tilted slightly.

Step 7 — Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, add final garnishes like a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs, a fresh cherry, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator.

For the best experience, use a long spoon to get a taste of every layer in each bite.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~420 kcal
Protein	~6 g
Carbohydrates	~48 g
Fat	~23 g
Fiber	~1 g
Sodium	~280 mg

Note: These are approximate values for one serving of No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling. Actual nutrition can vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities used.

Healthier Alternatives

This versatile No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling is easy to adapt for different dietary needs and health goals. Here are some simple swaps to try.

• Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese — Use full-fat or 2% plain Greek yogurt for a high-protein, lower-fat base with a delicious tang.
• Nut-Based Cream Cheese — Opt for a store-bought almond or cashew cream cheese to create a rich, dairy-free No Bake Cheesecake Parfait.
• Low-Sugar Cherry Filling — Make your own filling using frozen cherries and a sugar substitute like monk fruit or allulose to control sweetness.
• Nut or Seed Crumble — Replace graham crackers with a blend of crushed almonds, pecans, and a touch of cinnamon for a gluten-free, lower-carb crunch.
• Coconut Whipped Cream — Top your parfait with whipped coconut cream for a luxurious dairy-free finish.
• Silken Tofu Blend — For a plant-based protein boost, blend silken tofu with lemon juice and vanilla to mimic the classic cheesecake texture.
• Reduced-Sodium Graham Crackers — If using store-bought crusts, seek out a low-sodium variety to cut back on salt without sacrificing texture.
• Chia Seed Pudding Layer — Add a layer of vanilla chia pudding for extra fiber and a delightful, gel-like texture contrast.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of sparkling Moscato for a delightful dessert pairing.
• Serve it as a stunning finale to a summer barbecue or a festive holiday meal, where its no-bake convenience is a major plus.
• For a fun family dessert, set up a parfait bar with different toppings like chocolate shavings, toasted nuts, or crushed cookies alongside the cherry pie filling.
• Elevate the plating by using elegant stemmed glasses or clear mason jars to showcase the beautiful layers of your No Bake Cheesecake Parfait.
• Transform it into individual party desserts by preparing them in small, disposable cups for easy grab-and-go enjoyment at picnics or potlucks.
• For a brunch option, offer mini versions alongside fresh fruit and pastries; the creamy cheesecake layer complements morning flavors beautifully.

A final tip: chill the assembled parfaits for at least an hour before serving. This allows the graham cracker layer to soften slightly and the flavors to meld, creating the perfect texture in every spoonful of your No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using room-temperature cream cheese. Fix: Always use cold, full-fat cream cheese straight from the fridge for a stable, thick filling that holds its shape.
• Mistake: Overmixing the cheesecake filling. Fix: Mix just until smooth and combined; overbeating incorporates too much air and can make the parfait runny.
• Mistake: Choosing a watery cherry pie filling. Fix: Opt for a premium, thick filling or drain excess syrup to prevent soggy, collapsing layers.
• Mistake: Not chilling the graham cracker crust layer. Fix: Briefly freeze the crust layer in each glass before adding filling to create a distinct, crisp texture barrier.
• Mistake: Assembling parfaits too far in advance. Fix: Layer components no more than 2-3 hours before serving to maintain perfect texture separation.
• Mistake: Using a thin, low-fat yogurt or sour cream substitute. Fix: Stick to full-fat dairy for richness and structure; low-fat versions can make the filling weep.
• Mistake: Skipping the sweetener in the whipped cream. Fix: Lightly sweeten your whipped cream to balance the tang of the cream cheese and the tart cherries.
• Mistake: Creating messy, uneven layers. Fix: Use a piping bag or a spoon pressed against the glass side for clean, photogenic layers in your No Bake Cheesecake Parfait.
• Mistake: Forgetting to scrape the mixing bowl. Fix: Regularly scrape down the bowl and beaters to ensure a perfectly smooth, lump-free cheesecake mixture.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Assemble parfaits in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The graham cracker layer will soften over time.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled parfaits in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheat: This No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling is served cold and should not be reheated. Keep refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) for food safety.

For the best texture, consider storing the graham cracker crumbs separately and layering them just before serving your delicious parfait.

Conclusion

This No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling is the perfect easy dessert for any occasion. If you love simple, fruity treats, you might also enjoy our Raspberry Chocolate Lasagna Recipe. We hope you give this recipe a try—be sure to leave a comment with your review and subscribe for more delicious ideas!

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No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait

Print Recipe

• Author: Olivia Bennett

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 7 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
• 1 14 ounce can sweetened condense milk
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 21 ounce can cherry pie filling

Instructions

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter; set aside.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Beat in the sweetened condense milk until combined.
3. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and vanilla extract and stir well.
4. Set 6 plastic, 9 ounce punch cups on the counter or a cookie sheet. Scoop 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture into the bottom of each cup and press down lightly.
5. Add 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture to each cup and spread out evenly.
6. Next, evenly distribute half of the cherry pie filling between the 6 cups, reserving the other half of the pie filling for another layer.
7. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the graham crack crumb mixture over the cherry layer.
8. Divide the remaining cheesecake mixture between the 6 cups and spread out evenly.
9. Divide the reserved cherry pie filling evenly between the 6 cups, then sprinkle the top with a little graham cracker crumb mixture.
10. Serve immediately or chill for up to 24 hours before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the parfaits a few hours ahead. For the best texture, keep them refrigerated and add the final cherry pie filling layer just before serving. This prevents the graham cracker layer from becoming too soft.

What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?

You can use any canned pie filling, like blueberry or strawberry, for a different flavor. Fresh berries tossed with a little sugar also work well in this No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling.

Do I need to use a specific type of cream cheese?

Use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese for the best consistency and flavor. Soften it to room temperature so it blends smoothly with the other ingredients without lumps.