No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling

Introduction

No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling is the ultimate effortless yet elegant dessert that’ll wow your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth in a flash. Imagine layers of velvety, creamy cheesecake filling, buttery graham cracker crumbs, and a vibrant cherry pie topping all stacked in a perfect, glassy parfait. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but the presentation is as impressive as the taste, making it a stunning addition to any occasion without the need for an oven or intricate techniques.

The first time I made these parfaits, I was amazed by how quickly they came together. Layering the ingredients was almost like assembling a work of art, and the sweet-tart cherry pie filling on top added the perfect finishing touch. In just a few minutes, I had a dessert that looked and tasted like it had come from a bakery—no baking required.

What I love most about these No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits is their versatility. You can swap the cherry topping for blueberries, raspberries, or even a swirl of caramel for a new twist. They’re perfect for serving at parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in when you want something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. No matter how you serve them, these parfaits are bound to be a crowd favorite every time.

Perfect for:

Dinner parties
Family gatherings
Potluck desserts
Date nights
Anytime sweet treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling will become your go-to dessert:

No Baking Required: Skip the oven and whip up these parfaits in no time.
Easy to Assemble: Simple ingredients and no-fuss assembly make this dessert perfect for beginners.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The creamy cheesecake filling pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cherry pie filling.
Customizable: Swap the cherry filling for your favorite fruit or topping.
Elegant Presentation: Serve in glasses or jars for a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 1-2 hours (optional)
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
Optional: Fresh cherries or whipped cream for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

Cream Cheese: The base of the cheesecake layer, providing rich and creamy texture.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds lightness to the cheesecake filling for a mousse-like consistency.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: A buttery, crunchy layer that complements the creamy filling.
Cherry Pie Filling: Sweet and tart, it’s the perfect topping for this dessert.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Graham Cracker Layer:

Mix the Crumbs: In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
Set Aside: Set the crumb mixture aside while you prepare the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Beat the Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and light.

Assemble the Parfaits:

Layer the Crumbs: Spoon a layer of graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of each glass or jar. Press down lightly to create an even layer.
Add the Cheesecake Filling: Pipe or spoon a layer of cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crumbs.
Top with Cherry Pie Filling: Add a generous layer of cherry pie filling on top of the cheesecake layer.
Repeat Layers (Optional): For taller parfaits, repeat the layers until the glasses are full, ending with cherry pie filling on top.

Chill and Serve:

Chill the Parfaits: Refrigerate the assembled parfaits for 1-2 hours to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh cherries, whipped cream, or additional graham cracker crumbs, if desired.

How to Serve

In Individual Glasses: Serve in small mason jars, wine glasses, or clear cups for a charming, personal touch.
Layered in a Trifle Dish: For a crowd, layer the parfait ingredients in a large trifle dish for an impressive presentation.
With Crushed Graham Crackers: Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers between layers for a textured crunch.
With Fresh Berries: Top the parfait with fresh raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for added color and freshness.
Chilled and Set: Let the parfaits set in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours before serving to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
On a Dessert Platter: Serve a few parfaits on a dessert platter with other mini treats for a variety of flavors.
Drizzled with Chocolate: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or chocolate syrup on top for a richer, indulgent touch.
With Whipped Cream: Top each parfait with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top for the classic cheesecake look.
In Edible Cups: Serve the parfaits in edible cookie cups for a fun, edible serving option that adds flavor and texture.
With Crumbled Biscotti or Cookies: Add a crumbled biscotti or crushed cookies on top or inside the parfait for extra flavor and crunch.

Additional Tips

Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
Use a Piping Bag: For neat layers, use a piping bag or zip-top bag to pipe the cheesecake filling.
Chill for Best Results: While these parfaits can be enjoyed immediately, chilling them enhances the flavors and texture.
Fresh Fruit Option: Swap the cherry pie filling for fresh fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, or mixed berries.
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed nuts or chocolate shavings on top for added texture.

Recipe Variations

Strawberry Parfaits: Replace cherry pie filling with strawberry pie filling or fresh strawberries.
Chocolate Parfaits: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or sprinkle chocolate chips between layers.
Lemon Cheesecake Parfaits: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake filling and top with lemon curd.
Peach Parfaits: Use canned or fresh peaches in place of cherries for a summery twist.
Berry Medley Parfaits: Combine blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a mixed berry topping.
Salted Caramel Parfaits: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cheesecake filling for a rich, sweet option.
Oreo Cheesecake Parfaits: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed Oreos for a chocolatey base.
Pumpkin Parfaits: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the cheesecake layer for a fall-inspired dessert.
Nutella Parfaits: Mix Nutella into the cheesecake filling and layer with crushed hazelnuts.
Tropical Parfaits: Use pineapple and mango for a tropical flair.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: Assemble the parfaits without the cherry topping and freeze for up to 1 month. Add the topping before serving.
Storage: Store parfaits in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly to keep them fresh.

Special Equipment

Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer: For whipping cream and blending the cream cheese mixture to a smooth and fluffy texture.
Mixing Bowls: Use various sizes for preparing the cheesecake mixture and crumbling the crust.
Spatula: A silicone spatula is great for folding ingredients and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Food Processor: Ideal for crushing graham crackers or cookies into fine crumbs for the parfait layers.
Piping Bags: Helps neatly layer the cheesecake mixture into the parfait glasses for a clean presentation.
Parfait Glasses: Clear glasses or jars to showcase the beautiful layers of cheesecake, crust, and cherry filling.
Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: For portioning out the cheesecake mixture and spreading layers evenly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of ingredients for the cheesecake filling and crust.
Zester: For adding a touch of fresh lemon zest to the cheesecake mixture, enhancing its flavor.
Small Offset Spatula: Useful for smoothing out layers in the parfait for a polished appearance.

FAQ

Can I make these parfaits ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
Crushed digestive biscuits, Oreos, or vanilla wafers work as great alternatives.
Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling will add a fresh, homemade touch to this dessert.
Can I make these parfaits sugar-free?
Use sugar-free cherry pie filling and a sugar substitute for the filling to make them diabetic-friendly.

Conclusion

No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling is a simple yet stunning dessert that’s sure to impress. With its creamy cheesecake layers, crunchy graham cracker crumbs, and vibrant cherry topping, this parfait is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, these parfaits are the perfect choice.

Quick to prepare and fully customizable, this dessert combines the rich, tangy flavor of cheesecake with the sweet burst of cherry pie filling, making it a crowd-pleasing treat. You can easily adjust the layers and toppings to suit your preferences—whether you add fresh berries, drizzle with chocolate, or opt for a different fruit topping.

I can’t wait to see how you create your No-Bake Cheesecake Parfait! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your take on this recipe. Don’t forget to share your favorite twists in the comments. Happy dessert-making!