Why Make This Recipe?
If you’re looking for a quick, no-bake dessert that’s packed with flavor and takes just a few minutes to prepare, then Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is the perfect choice! It’s light, creamy, and bursting with cherry cheesecake goodness in every spoonful. Made with whipped cream, cream cheese, sweet cherries, marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs, this dessert delivers all the flavors of a classic cheesecake without the hassle of baking.
Whether you need a last-minute potluck dish, a holiday dessert, or just a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, this Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is an easy, crowd-pleasing favorite!
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour (optional, for best texture)
- Total Time: 10 minutes (or 1 hour if chilled)
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
Ingredients
For the Fluff Mixture:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 8 oz Cool Whip)
For the Mix-Ins:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Extra graham cracker crumbs
- Whipped cream
- Fresh cherries
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Before starting, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture without lumps.
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Step 2: Whip the Cream
- Whip the Heavy Cream (If Not Using Cool Whip): In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream on high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).
- Fold It In: Gently fold the whipped cream (or Cool Whip) into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the Cherries and Mix-Ins
- Add the Cherry Pie Filling: Carefully fold in the cherry pie filling, making sure to distribute the cherries evenly throughout the mixture. Try not to overmix to maintain the beautiful swirls of cherry and cream cheese.
- Add Marshmallows & Nuts: Gently stir in mini marshmallows and chopped pecans or walnuts (if using). These add a nice chewy and crunchy texture to the fluff.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Chill for Best Flavor (Optional): While you can serve it immediately, it’s best to cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to blend and the fluff to thicken.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Garnish Before Serving: Sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs, a dollop of whipped cream, and fresh cherries for a beautiful presentation.
- Enjoy! Scoop into bowls or serve as a dip with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or pretzels.
How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
- As a Dessert Bowl: Serve in small bowls with a spoon.
- As a Parfait: Layer in glasses with extra graham cracker crumbs for a fancier presentation.
- As a Dip: Serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or pretzels for dipping.
- Frozen Treat: Freeze in popsicle molds for a cheesecake-flavored ice cream alternative!
How to Store Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze this fluff in individual servings for up to 1 month. Let it thaw slightly before eating.
- Reheat? No Need! Since it’s a cold dessert, simply take it out of the fridge and serve!
Tips to Make the Best Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest and creamiest texture.
- Whip the cream separately before folding it in to keep the fluff light and airy.
- Chill before serving for a thicker, fluffier consistency.
- Gently fold in cherries to maintain the swirled effect and avoid turning the fluff completely pink.
- For extra richness, add ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk to the mixture.
Variation Ideas
- Strawberry Cheesecake Fluff: Use strawberry pie filling instead of cherries.
- Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Fluff: Stir in mini chocolate chips or drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Healthier Version: Swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt and reduce the powdered sugar.
- Lemon Cheesecake Fluff: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
Tips for Success
- Make it ahead of time to let the flavors blend better.
- Use fresh cherries instead of pie filling for a more natural flavor.
- Taste before chilling and adjust sweetness if needed.
How Many Servings?
This recipe makes 6 servings (about ½ cup per serving).
Calories and Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Fats: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
Health Benefits of Cherry Cheesecake Fluff
- Good Source of Calcium: Cream cheese and whipping cream provide calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Antioxidants from Cherries: Cherries contain vitamins and antioxidants that support heart health.
- Energy Boosting: The natural sugars in cherries and marshmallows provide a quick energy boost.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Yes! This dessert is soft, easy to eat, and rich in nutrients. For a healthier version:
- Use low-fat cream cheese to reduce calories.
- Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Reduce the sugar or use honey as a natural sweetener.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, so making it the night before is a great idea.
2. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! Just mix 2 cups of chopped fresh cherries with 2 tablespoons of sugar, then let them sit for 10 minutes before adding them to the fluff.
3. Can I use Cool Whip instead of heavy cream?
Yes! Cool Whip is a great shortcut and makes the recipe even easier—just fold it in and skip the whipping step.
This Cherry Cheesecake Fluff is the ultimate easy, no-bake dessert that everyone will love! Try it today and let us know how it turned out!









