Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and hold together when pressed.
Press into Pan: Pour the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Use the bottom of a glass or a spatula to press the crumbs evenly into the bottom of the pan to form a solid crust.
Chill: Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add Sugar, Vanilla, and Lemon: Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice. Continue to beat until fully combined and smooth.
Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (this takes about 3-5 minutes).
Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
Add Filling to Crust: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Chill: Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping
Top with Cherries: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and set, spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
Serve: Slice and serve! Enjoy your no-bake cherry cheesecake with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special touch.
Tips and Variations
Alternative Toppings: While cherry is a classic topping, you can easily swap it for other flavors like blueberry pie filling, fresh strawberries, or even chocolate ganache.
Make it Lighter: Use light cream cheese and whipped topping (instead of heavy cream) for a lighter version of this dessert.
Crust Options: You can swap graham cracker crumbs for crushed Oreos or digestive biscuits for a different crust flavor.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid any lumps in your cheesecake filling.
