Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Dessert – Perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Quick & Easy – Minimal effort required, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- Creamy & Fluffy – The whipped topping and cream cheese blend beautifully for a light texture.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Sweet, tart cherries complement the rich cheesecake base.
- Customizable – Swap out the cherries for other fruit fillings or add mix-ins for variety.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Fluff:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
For the Crumble:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Directions
1. Make the Crumble
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Fluff
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue to beat until well blended.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Layers
- In your serving dish, spread half of the crumble mixture evenly at the bottom.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the crumble, spreading it into an even layer.
- Top with the cherry pie filling, spreading it out to cover the cream cheese layer completely.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top for a crunchy finish.
4. Chill
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Calories: 310 kcal per serving
Variations
- Different Fruit Fillings: Try blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry pie filling instead of cherry.
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolatey touch.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the top for added texture.
- Graham Cracker Alternative: Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a different crust flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a citrusy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may become watery upon thawing.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This dessert is best when made ahead and chilled, making it perfect for meal prep.
FAQs
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes! Use 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and beat it with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, so making it a day ahead is a great idea.
What’s the best way to serve this dessert?
Serve it chilled in individual cups or a trifle dish for a beautiful presentation.
Can I add extra toppings?
Yes! Try drizzling chocolate or caramel sauce, adding crushed nuts, or sprinkling more graham cracker crumbs.
Is this dessert overly sweet?
It has a balanced sweetness, but you can reduce the powdered sugar slightly if you prefer a milder taste.
What can I substitute for graham crackers?
Crushed digestive biscuits, Nilla wafers, or shortbread cookies make great alternatives.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly less rich and creamy.
How can I make it extra fluffy?
Make sure to fold in the whipped topping gently to maintain its airy texture.
Can I make this dessert keto-friendly?
Use a sugar-free whipped topping, low-carb sweetener, and almond flour or crushed keto-friendly cookies for the crumble.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep them refrigerated in a sealed container. Serve chilled for the best texture.
Conclusion
Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is the ultimate easy, no-bake dessert that delivers on both taste and texture. With its creamy cheesecake layer, sweet cherry topping, and crunchy graham cracker crumble, it’s a treat that will impress guests and satisfy any sweet tooth. Try different variations, make it ahead, and enjoy this simple yet indulgent dessert whenever you need a quick and delicious treat!
Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is a no-bake dessert featuring a creamy cheesecake filling, sweet cherry topping, and buttery graham cracker crumble. Light, fluffy, and easy to make, this irresistible treat is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a quick indulgence!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake Treats
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Fluff:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
For the Crumble:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp sugar
Instructions
Make the Crumble
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Fluff
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until well blended.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fluffy.
3. Assemble the Layers
- Spread half of the crumble mixture in the bottom of a serving dish.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the crumble in an even layer.
- Spread the cherry pie filling on top, covering the cheesecake layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble over the top for extra crunch.
4. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Fruit Variations: Swap cherries for blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry pie filling.
- Make It Lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free whipped topping.
- Crunch Alternative: Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers.
- Chocolate Twist: Stir in mini chocolate chips for an extra treat!