No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cookie Layer Dessert
If you’re searching for the perfect party dessert that requires no baking, no fuss, and absolutely no special skills,
this No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cookie Layer Dessert is the dreamy treat you’ve been looking for.
With its creamy cheesecake filling, sweet cherry layers, and soft Nilla Wafer cookie base, this dessert tastes like a cross between
a cherry cheesecake and a layered icebox cake — rich, fruity, creamy, and totally irresistible.
It’s the ideal make-ahead dessert for birthdays, potlucks, holidays, family gatherings, or any time you want something sweet but effortless.
Every spoonful gives you a perfect blend of crunchy cookies that soften into a cake-like texture, velvety cream cheese filling,
and bright cherry flavor that ties everything together beautifully.
🍒 Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- No baking required — just layer, chill, and enjoy
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- Perfect for parties and gatherings
- Looks stunning in slices or scooped
- Can be customized with different fruits or cookies
🧾 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Nilla Wafer Minis (or regular) | 5 mini bags (or 1 regular package) |
| Softened cream cheese | 8 ounces |
| White sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Cool Whip (whipped topping) | 1 tub (8 ounces) |
| Cherry preserves | 1/2 cup |
| Cherry pie filling | 1 can |
Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened — it helps create an extra smooth, silky cheesecake mixture.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Base Layer
Start by lining the bottom of a loaf pan or small baking dish with a layer of Nilla Wafers.
You can place them neatly or scatter them casually — they will soften into a cake-like texture as the dessert chills.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and lump-free.
This step is important for creating a silky texture in the final dessert.
Add the Cool Whip and fold or mix gently until everything is fully combined.
The mixture should be thick, fluffy, and easy to spread.
3. Add the First Layer of Filling
Spread half of the cheesecake mixture over the Nilla Wafers.
Use a spatula to smooth the top and push the filling into the spaces between the cookies.
4. Add the Cherry Preserves
Loosen the cherry preserves by stirring them in a bowl.
Spoon the preserves over the cheesecake layer and spread gently.
This layer adds a bright, sweet, fruity burst that enhances the cherry flavor.
5. Add the Second Cookie Layer
Place another layer of Nilla Wafers over the cherry mixture.
This second layer gives structure, balance, and a soft cookie “cake” texture once chilled.
6. Add the Remaining Cheesecake Layer
Spread the remaining cheesecake mixture over the cookies, creating a smooth, even layer.
This seals the dessert and gives the perfect creamy topping.
7. Finish with Cherry Pie Filling
Spread the cherry pie filling over the top.
This becomes the beautiful, glossy first layer people see — and it adds a final burst of cherry flavor.
8. Chill Overnight
Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best.
The cookies soften, the layers settle, and the flavors come together for that perfect no-bake “lasagna” texture.
🍽️ How to Serve
Serve chilled with a spoon or slice it like a layered cake.
You can also top with:
- Fresh cherries
- Extra whipped cream
- Crushed vanilla wafers
- Chocolate shavings
This dessert is always a hit at parties!
💡 Tips & Variations
- Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or peach.
- Add a layer of banana slices under the cherry preserves.
- Use chocolate wafers for a black-forest flavor.
- Try adding a splash of almond extract to the cheesecake filling.
- For thicker layers, double the cheesecake mixture.
📦 Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: 2 months (thaw overnight)
The longer it chills, the better it tastes — so it’s an excellent make-ahead dessert for busy days.
🎉 Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cookie Layer Dessert is everything a party dessert should be: simple, beautiful,
delicious, and foolproof. With bright cherry flavor, creamy cheesecake layers, and soft cookies that transform into a cake-like texture,
every bite tastes like pure comfort and joy.
Make it once, and you’ll find yourself preparing it again and again for every celebration!