If you’re looking for a show-stopping, fuss-free dessert that’s bursting with fruity flavor and decadent creamy layers, this No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling is your new go-to. With lush whipped cream, silky cheesecake filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and that irresistible crown of glossy cherries, these parfaits look like they took hours – but come together with almost no effort. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want something special for family dinner, this treat is pure nostalgia and pure joy in every bite.

No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling keeps things blissfully simple while still delivering on flavor and visual wow-factor. Each ingredient truly brings something important, from creamy richness to bright pops of tang and that iconic cherry topping.

Honey graham crackers: The base of your parfait, offering a sweet, slightly toasty flavor and delicious sandy texture for the crust.
Granulated sugar: Adds that necessary sweetness to both the crust and the creamy cheesecake layers – don’t skip it!
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crust and gives it that rich, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Cream cheese: The star of the show for that signature tangy, ultra-creamy cheesecake flavor and texture.
Fresh lemon juice: Just a splash lifts the whole dessert and balances the sweet creaminess with a hint of brightness.
Vanilla extract: Warm vanilla notes complement the cream cheese and make everything taste homier and more irresistible.
Kosher salt: Just a pinch brings all the flavors into focus and enhances the overall richness.
Heavy cream: Whipped cream folded in makes the filling light, fluffy, and oh-so-indulgent.
Cherry pie filling: That beautiful, jammy, ruby-red crown – classic, simple, and absolutely iconic atop these parfaits.

How to Make No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Begin by combining your finely crushed honey graham crackers with a tablespoon of sugar in a mixing bowl. Pour in the melted butter and stir it all together until every crumb is glossy and moistened, the perfect consistency for packing. This mixture forms the delicious, buttery foundation for your No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling.

Step 2: Divide and Press the Crust

Spoon the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of your serving glasses or jars. Press down gently with the back of a spoon or, for an extra neat look, use a small glass to help compact the crust layer. Set them aside while you move on to the filling – no need to bake, just let them sit and firm up at room temperature.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat together the room temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar with a hand or stand mixer. You want it absolutely smooth and creamy, so scrape down the sides as needed. Next, add your lemon juice, vanilla, and a pinch of kosher salt, and mix until everything is combined and fragrant. This is the velvety heart of your No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling.

Step 4: Whip and Fold the Cream

In a clean bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form – the mixture should be thick, cloudlike, and hold its shape. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, working slowly so you don’t deflate all that lovely air. The result? Cheesecake filling that’s whipped and airy, yet satisfyingly rich.

Step 5: Assemble the Parfaits

Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling on top of your graham cracker crust layer in each glass. Smooth the tops with a spatula for that perfect layered effect. Then, open up your can of cherry pie filling and spoon a generous layer over the creamy filling, letting some of the cherry syrup drip down the sides for visual drama. Your No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling is starting to look irresistible!

Step 6: Chill and Set

Now comes the hardest part: patience! Refrigerate the parfaits for at least two hours. During this time, the filling will set up into a perfectly creamy, scoopable consistency and the flavors will mingle into cheesecake bliss. After chilling, they’re ready to serve and enjoy.

How to Serve No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling

Garnishes

Add a flourish to each parfait just before serving. Try a swirl of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs, or a few curls of white chocolate to complement the cherry topping. A fresh mint sprig will make the colors pop and brighten each glass even more.

Side Dishes

These parfaits are delightful on their own, but if you want to serve them as part of a dessert spread, pair them with crisp butter cookies, shortbread, or a platter of fresh berries. These light accompaniments keep the spotlight on your No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling while rounding out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your parfaits in elegant stemmed glasses, rustic Mason jars, or tiny shot glasses for a party. For a crowd, layer the ingredients in a large trifle dish and scoop out individual servings tableside. These parfaits always steal the show, whatever the vessel!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), cover the parfaits tightly with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate. They’ll stay incredibly fresh for up to three days. The crust will soften slightly but the flavors meld beautifully over time.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled parfaits if you like a semi-frozen, ice cream cake vibe. Cover them really well to avoid freezer burn and freeze for up to one month. Let them thaw slightly in the fridge before serving for the perfect chilled treat.

Reheating

No reheating needed for this dessert – in fact, it’s best served chilled! Just let the parfaits sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if they’ve been stored in the fridge to take the chill off before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit pie filling for these parfaits?

Absolutely! While cherry is classic for the No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling, blueberry, strawberry, or even peach pie filling all work deliciously. Just sub your favorite flavor for a fun twist.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the honey graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free graham crackers or cookies. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy.

Can I make these parfaits in advance?

These parfaits are actually perfect for making ahead! They need at least two hours in the fridge, but you can assemble them up to a day in advance for peak convenience and flavor.

How can I make my parfait layers look extra neat?

For clean, precise layers, use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to add the cheesecake filling over the crust. Gently spoon or pipe the cherry topping for a picture-perfect finish.

What size cups or jars should I use?

8-ounce glasses or jars are ideal for individual servings of No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling, but you can scale up or down depending on the occasion. Smaller dessert cups are perfect for parties, or use a big trifle bowl for a centerpiece!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving an easy, crowd-pleasing treat, you can’t go wrong with No Bake Cheesecake Parfait with Cherry Pie Filling. It’s dreamy, creamy, and every spoonful is pure comfort. I hope you’ll give it a try and share some truly sweet moments with your loved ones!