Introduction

This Easy No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Parfait is the ultimate quick dessert, requiring just 5 minutes of prep and no oven. With layers of creamy cheesecake filling, sweet cherry pie filling, and crunchy graham crackers, it’s a stunning treat perfect for any occasion. For more simple no-bake ideas, try this Raspberry Chocolate Lasagna Recipe or a festive Valentine’s Day Oreo M&M’s Cookies Recipe.

Ingredients

This no bake cheesecake parfait with cherry pie filling layers a buttery graham cracker crust with a lusciously tangy, creamy filling and sweet, juicy cherries for a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

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

Context: This No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling comes together in about half the time of a traditional baked cheesecake recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Crust Layer

Pulse graham crackers in a food processor until you have fine crumbs. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Tip: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. Press a few tablespoons firmly into the bottom of each serving glass to create a solid base.

Step 2 — Make the No-Bake Cheesecake Filling

Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar on medium speed until completely smooth and lump-free, about 2-3 minutes.

Gradually add in heavy cream and vanilla extract, then increase the mixer speed to high. Whip until the mixture is thick, holds stiff peaks, and has a spreadable, mousse-like consistency.

Step 3 — Layer the Parfait

Spoon or pipe a generous layer of the cheesecake filling over the crust in each glass. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it gently against the side of the glass for a clean look.

Tip: For professional-looking layers, use a piping bag. Alternate between filling and cherry layers, ending with a cherry topping for visual appeal.

Step 4 — Add the Cherry Pie Filling

Spoon a layer of cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. You can use a high-quality store-bought filling or your own homemade cherry compote.

If your filling is too runny, thicken it by simmering with a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) for 1-2 minutes, then let it cool completely before assembling.

Step 5 — Repeat Layers & Chill

Repeat the layering process—crust, cheesecake filling, cherry filling—until the glass is nearly full, typically 2-3 sets of layers. Finish with a final dollop of cherry filling on top.

Cover the parfaits and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the flavors to meld and the crust to soften slightly.

Step 6 — Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, add your final garnishes. A dollop of whipped cream, a fresh cherry, a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs, or a mint leaf all make beautiful finishes.

Tip: For the best texture and presentation, add any crunchy toppings like extra crumbs right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~420 kcal
Protein	~6 g
Carbohydrates	~52 g
Fat	~22 g
Fiber	~1 g
Sodium	~280 mg

Note: These are estimates for one serving of this No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling, based on typical ingredients and brands. Actual values may vary.

Healthier Alternatives

This no bake cheesecake parfait with cherry pie filling is wonderfully adaptable. Here are simple swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese — Use full-fat or 2% plain Greek yogurt for a high-protein, tangier version with fewer calories.
Coconut Cream for Dairy — Chill full-fat coconut cream and whip it for a rich, dairy-free and vegan-friendly topping.
Nut or Seed Butter for Graham Cracker Crumbs — Mix almond or sunflower seed butter with a touch of maple syrup and rolled oats for a gluten-free, lower-carb base layer.
Fresh or Frozen Cherries for Canned Pie Filling — Simmer pitted cherries with a little lemon juice and your preferred sweetener to control sugar and skip additives.
Low-Sodium Cream Cheese — An easy direct swap to reduce the overall sodium content if using the traditional recipe.
Silken Tofu Blended with Lemon — Blend soft silken tofu with lemon juice, vanilla, and a sweetener for a surprisingly smooth, protein-packed vegan cheesecake layer.
Monk Fruit or Allulose Sweetener — Substitute granulated sugar in the cheesecake mixture with a keto-friendly sweetener for a lower-carb, no bake cheesecake parfait.
Chia Seed Pudding Base — Layer with chia pudding made with almond milk for added fiber and a delightful texture contrast to the cherry pie filling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling with a crisp, sparkling Prosecco or a glass of cold milk for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Serve it as a stunning, elegant finale for a summer barbecue or a festive holiday meal, where its no-bake convenience is a major advantage.
For a brunch or afternoon tea, create mini versions in small glasses or shot glasses for a perfect, single-serving treat.
Elevate the plating by topping each parfait with a fresh mint leaf, a light dusting of graham cracker crumbs, or a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce.
Transform it into a shareable dessert by layering the components in a large, clear trifle bowl, allowing guests to admire the beautiful stripes.
Offer a build-your-own parfait bar with separate bowls of the cheesecake filling, cherry pie filling, crumb base, and toppings like whipped cream and toasted nuts.

This versatile dessert is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight treat to an impressive dinner party centerpiece. The creamy, tangy cheesecake layer paired with the sweet-tart cherry pie filling creates a balanced and irresistible flavor profile that appeals to all ages.

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 layer. Fix: Mix just until smooth and combined; overbeating incorporates too much air, making the parfait fluffy and unstable.
Mistake: Choosing a runny cherry pie filling. Fix: Opt for a thick, high-quality canned filling or drain excess syrup to prevent soggy, collapsing layers.
Mistake: Skipping the chill time for the crust. Fix: Firm up the graham cracker layer in the freezer for 10 minutes before adding filling to maintain a distinct, crunchy texture.
Mistake: Sweetening the whipped cream too early. Fix: Whip the cream to soft peaks first, then add sugar and vanilla to achieve the perfect, pillowy consistency without graininess.
Mistake: Assembling parfaits too far in advance. Fix: Layer components no more than 2-3 hours before serving to preserve the ideal contrast between creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements.
Mistake: Using a thin, weak glass for serving. Fix: Choose a sturdy, clear vessel with straight sides to showcase the beautiful layers and support the weight of the dessert.
Mistake: Forgetting to scrape the mixing bowl. Fix: Regularly scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a spatula to ensure a perfectly smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.

Storing Tips

Fridge: Assemble parfaits in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 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 dessert is served cold and should not be reheated. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve, ensuring it stays below 40°F (4°C) for food safety.

For the best texture, add the graham cracker crumble just before serving. If making components ahead, store the cherry pie filling and cheesecake mixture separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling is the perfect fuss-free dessert for any occasion. If you love easy, creamy treats, you might also enjoy our Raspberry Cheesecake Bites with Chocolate Crust Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!