If you love cheesecake but don’t want the hassle of water baths and complicated techniques, an Easy Cheesecake Pie is the perfect solution. This recipe delivers the same creamy, rich flavor of a traditional cheesecake, but it’s simpler to prepare, requires fewer ingredients, and bakes in a classic pie crust.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, cheesecake pie is always a crowd-pleaser.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Easy Cheesecake Pie
No water bath required
Minimal ingredients and steps
Perfect balance of creamy filling and flaky crust
Customizable with endless topping options
Ingredients Overview
For the Crust:
1 pre-made graham cracker crust or regular pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Filling:
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Toppings (Optional):
Fresh berries
Fruit preserves or pie filling
Chocolate or caramel drizzle
Whipped cream
How to Make Easy Cheesecake Pie
Prepare the Crust
If using a store-bought graham cracker crust, it’s ready to go. For a homemade graham cracker crust, mix 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs with ¼ cup melted butter and 2 tablespoons sugar. Press into a pie dish and chill for 10 minutes.
If using a standard pie crust, pre-bake it according to package or recipe instructions, then cool.
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream if using.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly wobbly.
Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Add Toppings
Before serving, top with fresh berries, fruit preserves, chocolate drizzle, or whipped cream as desired.
Tips for the Best Cheesecake Pie
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free filling
Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles and cracking
Chill the pie thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts
Variations to Try
Add a swirl of fruit preserves to the filling before baking
Use a chocolate cookie crust for a richer flavor
Flavor the filling with lemon zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder
Top with crushed candy, nuts, or caramel sauce
Storage Tips
Store cheesecake pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 1 month—thaw in the fridge before serving
Easy cheesecake pie is a creamy, satisfying dessert that skips the complicated steps of traditional cheesecake but keeps all the flavor. Whether you dress it up with fruit or enjoy it plain, it’s a quick and delicious way to satisfy your cheesecake cravings.
