No Bake Cherry Cheese Squares
Creamy cherry cheesecake squares with a graham cracker crust and light whipped topping, perfect for a refreshing dessert that appeals to fruit and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter; mix well.
- Press firmly into the bottom of a 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan to form the crust.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator until set.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, grated lemon peel, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
- Top with cherry pie filling evenly spread over the cheese layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding extra grated lemon peel or a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture. If you don't have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits or even Oreos can work as a crust alternative. Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier blending. You can also use Cool Whip in place of homemade whipped cream for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the squares into bite-sized pieces for easy serving. These cherry cheese squares are delightful on their own but can be paired with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for added flair. For a fun twist, serve alongside a slice of Lemon Cheese Cake Pie to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best served chilled, so if it gets warm, pop it back in the fridge for a bit before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change and the whipped cream could separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Bake Cherry Cheese Squares contains roughly 1625 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 156g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Simply pit and slice them, then mix with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a fresh topping. Cook the mixture on low heat until slightly thickened before layering it on the dessert. This adds a delightful freshness compared to canned filling.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free cherry cheese squares, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour. Ensure that the whipped cream and other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dessert without gluten concerns.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Absolutely! These squares can be made a day in advance, making them a great option for parties. Just be sure to cover them well with plastic wrap to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the fridge. They taste even better after resting overnight as the flavors meld.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).