No oven? No problem. Just layer, chill, and enjoy every creamy, chocolate-cherry bite.
Table of Contents
💭 Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dessert
You know those days when turning on the oven feels like a chore? Or when you want something sweet now, not three hours from now? That’s where this no-bake chocolate cherry delight comes in. It’s rich, creamy, loaded with chocolate flavor, and balanced perfectly with juicy cherries. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself, this dessert hits all the right notes—without heating up your kitchen.
📝 What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos) | 30 cookies, crushed |
| Butter (melted) | ½ cup |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 8 oz |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Whipped topping (like Cool Whip) | 16 oz, divided |
| Chocolate pudding mix (instant) | 2 boxes (3.9 oz each) |
| Cold milk | 3 cups |
| Cherry pie filling | 1 can (21 oz) |
| Chocolate shavings (optional) | For garnish |
🍰 How to Make It
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Crush the chocolate cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by sealing them in a zip-top bag and smashing with a rolling pin.
- Stir in melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture into a 9×13 inch dish. Chill in the fridge while you prep the next layer.
Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping.
- Spread this layer over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Add the Pudding Layer
- In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thick (about 2 minutes).
- Spread the chocolate pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Layer on the Cherries
- Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the pudding layer. Spread gently to avoid mixing.
Step 5: Top It Off
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the cherry layer.
- Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or cookie crumbs if desired.
Step 6: Chill
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
✅ Tips for Dessert Success
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor and smoothest texture.
- Chill between layers if your kitchen is warm—this helps everything stay distinct.
- Want more cherry punch? Mix chopped maraschino cherries into the whipped topping layer.
- Add crunch by sprinkling chopped nuts between layers (pecans or almonds work great).
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it last in the fridge?
You can store it for up to 4–5 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze it before adding the final whipped topping. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and top fresh.
Can I use homemade pudding?
You can, but instant pudding keeps things quick and no-bake. If you go homemade, make sure it’s completely cooled before layering.
What if I don’t like cherries?
Swap cherry pie filling with raspberry, strawberry, or even blueberry filling. It’s just as delicious.
🎉 When to Serve This Dessert
- Family gatherings
- Backyard BBQs
- Holiday dessert tables
- Potlucks
- Date night (yes, really)
🥄 Final Bite
When chocolate and cherry come together in a no-bake dessert that’s as easy as it is indulgent, you know you’ve found a keeper. This treat is everything—cool, creamy, rich, and refreshingly simple. All you have to do is layer it up and dig in.
💬 Ready to Try It?
Let me know how yours turns out—or how you put your own spin on it. And if you’re craving more no-bake desserts, I’ve got plenty more where this came from!