Cherry-O-Cheese Pie

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Press the Crust

1. Mix: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
3. Chill: Place the crust in the freezer for 10 minutes to set while you prepare the filling.

2. Beat the Filling

1. Smooth: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it is completely smooth and free of lumps.
2. Blend: Gradually pour in the sweetened condensed milk, beating constantly until well combined and creamy.
3. Thicken: Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract. The acidity of the lemon juice will naturally react with the condensed milk to thicken and set the filling without needing gelatin or baking.

3. Assemble and Chill

1. Layer: Pour the cream cheese filling into your chilled graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Chill: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) until the filling is firm.
3. Top: Just before serving, spoon the chilled cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer. Slice and enjoy!