why make this recipe
This dessert is quick, easy, and needs no oven. You can make it in cups and serve right away or chill for later. It fits small parties and simple family treats. If you like easy layered dishes, you might also enjoy reading about A Taste of Mexico for more simple flavor ideas.
introduction
No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits mix creamy filling, crunchy crumbs, and sweet cherries. You do not need special tools. The steps are short and clear. These parfaits look pretty and taste fresh.
how to make No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits
Follow the steps below in order. Work on the crust, then the filling, then layer the cups. Use clear cups to show the layers. Chill if you want firmer texture.
Ingredients :
- 1 ½ cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 7 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 21-ounce can cherry pie filling
Directions :
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated. Setting aside ensures the crust is ready when needed.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Beating until smooth ensures a creamy filling.
- Beat in the sweetened condensed milk until combined. Mixing thoroughly ensures a smooth and consistent filling.
- Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and vanilla extract, and stir well. Stirring well ensures even distribution of flavor.
- Set 6 plastic, 9-ounce punch cups on the counter or a cookie sheet. Using punch cups or similar glassware allows for clear layering.
- Scoop 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture into the bottom of each cup and press down lightly. Pressing lightly creates a firm base.
- Add 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture to each cup and spread out evenly. Spreading evenly ensures consistent layers.
- Evenly distribute half of the cherry pie filling between the 6 cups, reserving the other half for another layer. Reserving half ensures layers are balanced.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker crumb mixture over the cherry layer. Adding another crust layer adds texture.
- Divide the remaining cheesecake mixture between the 6 cups and spread out evenly. Using the remaining mixture completes the cheesecake filling.
- Divide the reserved cherry pie filling evenly between the 6 cups, then sprinkle the top with a little graham cracker crumb mixture. Adding the final cherry layer and crumbs completes the parfaits.
- Serve immediately or chill for up to 24 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the parfaits to set.

how to serve No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits
Serve in the same cups you layered. Add a small spoon and a napkin. You can top with extra cherries or a mint leaf. These go well with coffee or a light tea. For other simple side ideas, see Baked Sweet Potatoes.
how to store No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits
Cover the cups with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Do not leave them at room temperature for more than two hours.
tips to make No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Press crumbs lightly so the base holds but stays crumbly.
- Use fresh lemon juice for bright flavor.
- Chill if you want a firmer texture; serve immediately for softer parfaits.
- Make layers even by using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon.
variation (if any)
- Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry filling.
- Add a layer of chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a chocolate twist.
- Use crushed cookies instead of graham crackers for different crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can make and chill them up to 24 hours in advance.
Q: Can I freeze these parfaits?
A: Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change when thawed.
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A: Yes, but the filling may be slightly less rich. It will still taste good.
Q: How many servings does this make?
A: This recipe makes six 9-ounce parfaits.
Q: Can I make this without sweetened condensed milk?
A: You could use whipped cream plus sugar, but the texture and sweetness will change.
Conclusion
For a quick, no-oven dessert that still feels special, try these No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits (recipe and tips) for clear steps and useful notes: No-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits (recipe and tips).
PrintNo-Bake Cheesecake Parfaits
Quick and easy no-bake cheesecake parfaits with creamy filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and sweet cherry topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 7 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well and set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Beat in the sweetened condensed milk until combined.
- Add lemon juice and vanilla extract; stir well.
- Set 6 plastic, 9-ounce punch cups on the counter or a cookie sheet.
- Scoop 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker mixture into each cup and press down lightly.
- Add 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake mixture to each cup and spread evenly.
- Distribute half of the cherry pie filling between the cups, reserving the other half.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker mixture over the cherry layer.
- Divide the remaining cheesecake mixture between the cups and spread evenly.
- Top with the reserved cherry pie filling and sprinkle with more graham cracker mixture.
- Serve immediately or chill for up to 24 hours before serving.
Notes
Serve with extra cherries or a mint leaf. Store covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 parfait
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: no-bake, cheesecake, parfaits, dessert, easy recipes