Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is the perfect balance of rich and light. The creamy cheesecake filling is lightened by the whipped topping, and the addition of cherry pie filling brings a burst of fruity sweetness. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients and no baking required. It’s a versatile dessert that’s just as great for casual family dinners as it is for holiday celebrations or potlucks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cheesecake Mixture:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
For the Topping:
- Additional cherry pie filling for garnish (optional)
- Graham cracker crumbs for garnish (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. - Fold in the Whipped Topping:
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. This will give the cheesecake fluff its light, airy texture. - Add the Cherry Pie Filling:
Carefully fold in the cherry pie filling until just combined. The cherries will provide a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. - Assemble the Dessert:
Spoon the cheesecake mixture into serving dishes or a large trifle bowl, depending on your preference. You can also divide it into smaller individual portions for easy serving. - Optional Garnishes:
Top with additional cherry pie filling, graham cracker crumbs, and fresh mint leaves for a decorative and flavorful touch. - Serve:
Chill the dessert for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy this cool, creamy dessert chilled!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
Variations
- Berry Twist: Use fresh or canned mixed berries or blueberry pie filling instead of cherry pie filling for a different fruity flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds into the cheesecake mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use non-dairy whipped topping to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake fluff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed within a few days to maintain its light, fluffy texture.
- Reheating: This dessert is meant to be served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat it.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you may want to cook them with a little sugar and cornstarch to create a syrup-like filling. Alternatively, you can use fresh fruit preserves.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a fresh, chilled treat.
3. Can I use a different type of topping besides whipped topping?
Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream or even a non-dairy whipped topping for a different variation.
4. Can I make individual servings of this dessert?
Yes, you can divide the cheesecake fluff into individual serving cups or bowls for a more personalized presentation.
5. Can I freeze this dessert?
While it’s not typically served frozen, you can freeze individual servings for up to a month. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
6. How do I make the graham cracker crumbs?
You can crush graham crackers by hand, or pulse them in a food processor until they form fine crumbs. For added flavor, try toasting them slightly in a pan.
7. Can I add more flavoring to the cheesecake mixture?
Yes, you can add lemon zest or almond extract for a twist in flavor.
8. Can I substitute the powdered sugar with another sweetener?
You can use an alternative sweetener, like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, but keep in mind that it might slightly affect the texture and taste of the fluff.
9. How can I make this dessert less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of powdered sugar and cherry pie filling, or use a lighter version of whipped topping.
10. Can I serve this dessert in a large trifle bowl?
Yes, a trifle bowl works beautifully for serving this dessert. Just layer the cheesecake fluff with the cherry filling for an elegant presentation.
Conclusion
Delectable Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is a delightful, no-bake dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the lightness of a fluffy whipped topping. The sweet cherry pie filling adds the perfect fruity contrast, making this treat both indulgent and refreshing. With easy prep and endless possibilities for customization, this dessert is sure to be a crowd favorite for any occasion!
Print
Delectable Cherry Cheesecake Fluff Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delectable Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is a creamy, no-bake dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with a light, fluffy texture. The sweet and tangy cherry pie filling adds the perfect burst of flavor, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 oz whipped topping, thawed
1 cup cherry pie filling
Optional garnish: Additional cherry pie filling, graham cracker crumbs, fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined to create a light, airy texture.
- Carefully fold in the cherry pie filling until just combined.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture into serving dishes or a large trifle bowl. You can also divide it into smaller individual portions.
- Top with optional garnishes like additional cherry pie filling, graham cracker crumbs, and fresh mint leaves.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For a different fruity flavor, substitute cherry pie filling with mixed berries or blueberry pie filling.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
For a vegan version, replace cream cheese and whipped topping with plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
