No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cookie Layer Dessert

 This stunning dessert proves you don’t need an oven to create something truly special. Featuring layers of velvety no-bake  cheesecake,  sweet cherry preserves, and buttery  Nilla wafers, all crowned with glossy cherry pie filling, it’s an effortless showstopper. The flavors meld in the fridge into a dessert that’s decadently creamy, delightfully crunchy, and bursting with fruit.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Serves: 8-10

 Ingredients

For the Crust & Layers:

• 1 (11 oz) box Nilla Wafer cookies (or about 5 snack-sized bags of minis)

• 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling, well-chilled

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz (1 block) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed

For the Cherry Ribbon:

• ½ cup cherry preserves or jam
  

   Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×5-inch loaf pan. Line the bottom with a single, snug layer of Nilla Wafers, breaking some to fill in gaps.

  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl using a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Using a spatula, gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until just combined and no streaks remain.

  3. Build the First Layers:

     • Spread half of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the wafer layer.

     • In a small bowl, stir the cherry preserves to loosen them. Dollop and gently spread them over the cheesecake layer.

  4. Add the Middle Layer: Place another single layer of Nilla Wafers over the cherry preserves.

  5. Finish Building: Spread the remaining cheesecake mixture evenly over the wafers. Finally, spoon the chilled cherry pie filling over the top, spreading it into a smooth, even layer.

  6. Chill: Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This is essential for the wafers to soften into a cake-like layer and for the dessert to set fully.

  7. Serve: Slice and serve cold, straight from the pan. For an extra touch, garnish with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.

   Chef’s Notes & Variations

  • Cookie Swap: Graham crackers or Golden Oreos make a delicious alternative to Nilla Wafers.

  • Flavor Twist: Use blueberry or strawberry pie filling and matching preserves for a different fruit profile.

  • Lighter Option: Substitute with reduced-fat cream cheese and light Cool Whip.

  • Make-Ahead Dream: This dessert is perfect for making 1-2 days in advance, as the flavors only improve.

  • Serving Tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.

  The Secret to Its Magic

  The magic happens in the fridge. As it chills, the Nilla Wafers absorb moisture from the creamy layers, transforming from crunchy cookies into a soft, cake-like texture that holds the dessert together beautifully. Each bite becomes a perfect harmony of creamy cheesecake, fruity jam, and tender cookie. It’s a make-ahead masterpiece that guarantees smiles with every spoonful.