Easiest holiday dessert
Easiest holiday dessert is a easy American recipe that serves 12. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Justine's Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 50 min | Total: 1 hr 25 min
Cost: $13.09 total, $1.09 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cans Cherry Pie Filling (Sweetened cherry pie filling, about 21 oz each)
- 0.5 container Philadelphia No‑Bake Cheesecake (Half of an 8 oz container, use the cream cheese mixture as is)
- 1 box French Vanilla Cake Mix (Any vanilla cake mix works; do not add any liquid)
- 1.5 sticks Butter (Salted or unsalted, cut into small pads)
Instructions
Grease the pan and add cherry filling
Lightly grease the Christmas tree pan with butter or non‑stick spray, then pour both cans of cherry pie filling into the bottom, spreading evenly.
Time: PT5M
Add cheesecake layer
Scoop half of the Philadelphia no‑bake cheesecake (about 4 oz) over the cherry layer and smooth with a spatula to create an even surface.
Time: PT5M
Pour dry cake mix
Open the vanilla cake mix box and pour the entire dry mix directly over the cheesecake layer. Do not add any water or milk.
Time: PT2M
Distribute butter pads
Place small pads of butter (cut from 1½ sticks) evenly across the top of the cake mix.
Time: PT3M
Bake the dessert
Place the pan in a preheated oven and bake at 350°F for about 50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the cake mix comes out clean.
Time: PT50M
Temperature: 350°F
Cool and serve
Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Time: PT20M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 15 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten, Eggs
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cherry Pie Filling: Cherry jam, Fresh pitted cherries (cooked down)
- Instead of Philadelphia No‑Bake Cheesecake: Regular cream cheese mixed with sugar and vanilla, Vegan cream cheese alternative
- Instead of French Vanilla Cake Mix: Other vanilla or yellow cake mixes, Homemade vanilla cake batter
- Instead of Butter: Margarine, Plant‑based butter
Equipment Needed
- Christmas Tree Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula or Spoon
- Oven
- Measuring Cups (optional) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Greasing the pan to prevent sticking
- Evenly flattening the cheesecake layer
- Distributing butter pads uniformly
- Baking for the correct time at 350°F
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use room‑temperature butter for easier cutting into pads.
- For a brighter cherry flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cherry layer.
- If you don’t have a Christmas tree pan, a regular 9×13‑inch pan works fine; cut into festive shapes after cooling.
Troubleshooting
The cake top is soggy or not set.
Increase baking time by 5‑10 minutes and ensure the oven is fully preheated to 350°F.
The dessert sticks to the pan when slicing.
Make sure the pan is well‑greased and allow the dessert to cool completely before cutting.
Butter pads melt too quickly and create a greasy surface.
Use chilled butter pads and distribute them evenly; if needed, cover the top loosely with foil halfway through baking.
Storage
Refrigerator: Cover tightly and store up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap each slice in plastic and foil; freeze up to 1 month.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours after baking.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the dessert up to the butter‑pad step and refrigerate; bake fresh for best texture.
- If making ahead, add the butter pads just before baking to keep them from becoming soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cherry cheesecake desserts in American holiday cuisine?
Cherry cheesecake desserts have become a staple of American holiday tables, combining the classic New York‑style cheesecake with the bright, tart flavor of cherries that symbolize prosperity and good luck during winter celebrations.
What are traditional regional variations of cherry cheesecake in the United States?
In the Midwest, cherry cheesecake often features a graham‑crust base, while in the South, it may be topped with a buttery shortbread crust. This recipe skips the crust for a quicker, pan‑baked version that still honors the cherry‑cheese pairing.
How is the authentic traditional way to serve a cherry cheesecake dessert during Christmas in American households?
Traditionally, the cheesecake is served chilled, sliced into generous wedges, and sometimes garnished with whipped cream, fresh cherries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive presentation.
What occasions or celebrations is this Easy No‑Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cake traditionally associated with in American culture?
This dessert is perfect for Christmas gatherings, holiday potlucks, and New Year’s celebrations, offering a sweet, colorful centerpiece that can be prepared ahead of time.
What other American holiday dishes pair well with this cherry cheesecake cake?
Pair it with classic sides like roasted turkey, honey‑glazed ham, or a fresh green salad, and serve alongside other desserts such as pumpkin pie or pecan tart for a full holiday spread.
What makes this Easy No‑Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cake special or unique in American holiday desserts?
It combines three beloved components—cherry pie filling, no‑bake cheesecake, and a vanilla cake mix—into one simple, festive pan, eliminating the need for a crust and reducing preparation time while still delivering rich flavor and texture.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this Easy No‑Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cake?
Common errors include under‑greasing the pan, not flattening the cheesecake layer evenly, and baking for too short a time, which can leave the cake mix soggy. Follow the critical steps and check for a golden top before removing from the oven.
Why does this recipe use butter pads on top of the dry cake mix instead of melting the butter into the mix?
Butter pads melt slowly during baking, creating pockets of moisture that keep the cake mix from drying out while also adding a buttery crumb texture that wouldn’t be achieved by mixing the butter in beforehand.
Can I make this Easy No‑Bake Cherry Cheesecake Cake ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can assemble the dessert up to the butter‑pad step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh for the best texture, then store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What does the YouTube channel Justine's Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Justine's Kitchen focuses on quick, family‑friendly recipes for everyday meals and holiday celebrations, emphasizing simple techniques and minimal ingredient lists.
How does the YouTube channel Justine's Kitchen's approach to holiday desserts differ from other cooking channels?
Justine's Kitchen prioritizes speed and accessibility, often using pre‑made mixes and pantry staples to create festive desserts without the need for extensive baking skills, whereas many other channels showcase more elaborate, multi‑step holiday recipes.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
