Classic Cherry Cheesecake Dessert (Big Family Pan)

Prep Time

25 minutes

Chill/Bake Time

4–6 hours (or overnight)

🍽 Serves

12–16 slices

INGREDIENTS

Crust Layer

• 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

(You can also use digestive biscuits or tea biscuits)

Creamy Cheesecake Filling

• 3 blocks (8 oz / 225 g each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream (cold)

Optional (extra richness):

• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

Cherry Topping

• 2 cans (21 oz / 595 g each) cherry pie filling

(Homemade cherry topping works too)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Pour in melted butter and mix until it looks like wet sand.
3. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
4. Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes
   (or bake at 180°C / 350°F for 10 minutes for a firmer crust)

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until creamy.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Fold in sour cream if using. The filling should be thick, fluffy, and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble

1. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the crust.
2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Chill

• Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.
• This helps it set perfectly for clean slices.

Serving

• Slice with a sharp knife (wipe between cuts).
• Serve cold for best texture and flavor.

TIPS & VARIATIONS

• No-Bake Version: Skip baking the crust and just chill.
• Baked Version: Bake filling at 160°C / 325°F for 45 minutes, cool fully, then add cherries.
• Swap cherries for strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry topping.
• Add lemon zest to the filling for a fresh twist.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS DESSERT

• Super creamy & rich
• Crowd-pleasing classic
• Easy to make ahead
• Perfect for holidays, potlucks & family gatherings