If there were ever a show-stopping dessert that somehow also manages to be no-fuss, it has to be this Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake. Imagine a dreamy, creamy cheesecake swirled with melted chocolate, set on a chocolate cookie crust, and finished with a glossy crown of cherry pie filling. Every bite is the perfect balance of rich chocolate, luscious cream, and tangy cherry—plus there’s absolutely no oven in sight! This make-ahead treat is destined to become your go-to for celebrations or anytime you want to whip up something truly memorable without breaking a sweat.

Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dessert is all about simple, high-impact ingredients. Each element plays a starring role, from the crunchy, chocolate base to the plush cream cheese filling and that irresistible cherry topping. Gather these up, and you’ll be well on your way to cheesecake bliss!

Chocolate cookie crumbs (1 ½ cups): These are the backbone of our crust, giving a deep cocoa flavor and satisfying crunch—try to use something like Oreos for the best taste!
Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Butter binds our cookie crumbs together and imparts a decadent richness to the crust.
Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): The heart of any cheesecake! Softened cream cheese ensures a silky-smooth filling every time.
Powdered sugar (½ cup): This sweetens our filling while keeping it light and fluffy—no gritty texture here.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Just a splash brings out the best in all the other flavors, tying everything together beautifully.
Whipped topping or whipped cream (1 ½ cups): This folds into the filling, making it airy and impossibly creamy—use homemade whipped cream if you want an extra special touch.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (½ cup, melted and cooled): Melted chocolate adds a rich, velvety depth that makes this cheesecake seriously crave-worthy.
Cherry pie filling (1 21-oz can): The juicy, glossy cherry topping turns every slice into pure celebration—don’t skimp!
Chocolate shavings or extra cherries (optional): For that final flourish, garnish with a few chocolate curls or fresh cherries to make your Cheesecake look as good as it tastes.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake

Step 1: Build the Perfect Chocolate Crust

Start by combining your chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until all the crumbs are evenly coated—a little patience here leads to the best base. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Pop it into the fridge while you move on; a well-chilled crust means a crisp, sliceable foundation for your Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Chocolate Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fabulously smooth and fluffy—this is your chance to make the filling completely lump-free. Gently fold in the melted (and slightly cooled) semi-sweet chocolate, followed by the whipped topping. Don’t overmix! You want the filling light, airy, and totally dreamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Spoon your luscious chocolate cheesecake filling onto the chilled crust, spreading it out evenly. Take a moment to smooth the top with a spatula; the prettier it looks now, the more impressive those slices will be later!

Step 4: Crown with Cherry Bliss

Gently spoon the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer, letting some of those gorgeous cherries nestle into the creamy filling. The bright red cherries against the chocolate are simply irresistible—a look that always brings “oohs” and “aahs.”

Step 5: Chill and Set

Cover your masterpiece and let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or, if you can stand the wait, overnight for a firmer cheesecake). The chilling time lets the flavors meld and the filling set into sliceable perfection.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, give your Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake some extra flair with chocolate shavings or extra cherries. Slice, serve, and prepare for smiles all around!

How to Serve Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake

Garnishes

For showstopping style, sprinkle plenty of chocolate shavings over the top, or add even more juicy cherries. A light dusting of powdered sugar also looks gorgeous and gives it a festive touch that makes every slice feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake is a star all on its own, but if you’re setting a dessert table, fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a simple vanilla ice cream make divine partners. Something light and subtly sweet is always a nice contrast to its richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try building the cheesecake in mini jars or dessert glasses for individual servings that wow at parties. If you want to get playful, sprinkle toasted chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips around the edge, or layer the cherries throughout the filling for bursts of flavor in every bite. However you present it, your Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake will steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this dreamy cheesecake should be covered tightly and kept in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days, though odds are it’ll disappear long before then! Covering with plastic wrap or storing slices in airtight containers helps maintain that creamy texture.

Freezing

The Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake freezes beautifully. For best results, freeze it without the cherry topping, tightly wrapped, for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add the cherry topping and any garnishes just before serving for a dessert that tastes as fresh as the day you made it.

Reheating

Since this beauty is all about chilly, creamy textures, reheating isn’t needed or recommended. Simply remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to soften slightly, and then slice and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! If cherries are in season, try making your own homemade cherry compote or simply spoon fresh, pitted cherries over each slice for a deliciously fresh twist on the classic flavor.

What kind of chocolate cookies work best for the crust?

Chocolate sandwich cookies like Oreos work best, but you can use any crisp, chocolate cookie. Just be sure to crush them finely for a nice, even crust.

Can I swap the chocolate chips for dark chocolate?

Definitely! Using good-quality dark chocolate will give an even richer, bolder taste, perfect for chocolate lovers looking to make this Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake extra decadent.

How long does it need to chill before serving?

A minimum of four hours is necessary, but an overnight chill is even better for that perfect texture and flavor meld. This makes it ideal for making ahead of time.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust and double-check your other ingredients for hidden gluten. The filling and topping are naturally gluten-free, so it’s easy to adjust!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that feels as celebratory as it tastes, the Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake is a must-try. With its crowd-pleasing flavors, fuss-free method, and absolutely stunning presentation, it’s destined for a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Gather your ingredients, invite your favorite people, and let this cheesecake bring a little extra joy to your table!

Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Chocolate Cherry No-Bake Cheesecake. Decadent chocolate meets luscious cherry filling in a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups whipped topping or whipped cream
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled

Additional:

1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
chocolate shavings or extra cherries for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter, press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, and chill.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in melted chocolate and whipped topping.
Assemble the Cheesecake: Spread the filling over the chilled crust, top with cherry pie filling, and refrigerate.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Garnish with chocolate shavings or cherries before serving.