No-Bake Cherry Almond Cream Cheese Dessert

No-Bake Cherry Almond Cream Cheese Dessert A buttery cookie crust, fluffy cream cheese filling, glossy cherry topping, and sliced almonds make this easy layered dessert a lovely choice for potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings. It is chilled rather than baked, so you can prepare it ahead and serve it cold.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Resting Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Cuisine: American
Cooking Method: No-Bake, Chilled

Ingredients for No-Bake Cherry Almond Cream Cheese Dessert

For the crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or vanilla cookie crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the cream cheese layer:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract, optional
• 1½ cups whipped topping, thawed

For the cherry topping:

• 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
• ½ cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted if desired

Instructions for No-Bake Cherry Almond Cream Cheese Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the pan

Use a 9-by-13-inch glass baking dish. For easier serving, you can line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang along the sides. Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing so the filling turns out smooth.

Step 2: Make the crumb crust

Add the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar to a bowl. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble damp sand.

Transfer the crumb mixture to the baking dish. Press it firmly and evenly across the bottom using the back of a spoon or the flat bottom of a measuring cup. A firmly packed crust will hold together better when you slice the dessert.

Place the dish in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes while you make the filling.

Step 3: Mix the cream cheese filling

Place the softened cream cheese in a large bowl. Beat it with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract. Beat again until the mixture is smooth. Fold in the whipped topping with a spatula, using gentle strokes so the filling stays light and airy.

Step 4: Spread the filling

Remove the crust from the refrigerator. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over it and spread it into an even layer, reaching all the way to the edges. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Add the cherry topping

Stir the cherry pie filling gently so the fruit and sauce are evenly mixed. Spoon it over the cream cheese layer and spread it carefully toward the edges. Try not to press too hard, which can disturb the creamy layer underneath.

Scatter the sliced almonds evenly over the cherries. For extra flavor, toast the almonds in a dry skillet over low heat for a few minutes, stirring often, then let them cool before adding.

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Step 6: Chill until set

Cover the dish without letting the cover touch the topping. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for the neatest slices. The chilling time helps the layers firm up and lets the crust hold together.

Step 7: Slice and serve

Cut the chilled dessert into squares with a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for cleaner portions. Keep the dessert refrigerated until you are ready to serve.

Tips for No-Bake Cherry Almond Cream Cheese Dessert

• Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes before mixing. Cold cream cheese can leave small lumps in the filling.
• Press the crust firmly into the dish so it stays together when sliced.
• Fold in the whipped topping gently. Overmixing can make the filling less fluffy.
• If using homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
• Almond extract has a strong flavor. Use only a small amount, or leave it out if you prefer a classic vanilla cream cheese layer.
• For a brighter flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to the filling.
• Let toasted almonds cool completely before sprinkling them over the dessert.
• Chill overnight when possible. The layers will be firmer and easier to portion.

Storage For No-Bake Cherry Almond Cream Cheese Dessert

Cover the dish tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it chilled while serving, since the cream cheese filling softens at room temperature. For the best texture, add the almonds shortly before serving if you are preparing the dessert more than a day ahead.

You can freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving. The texture of the cherry topping may soften slightly after freezing, so this dessert is best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.