Classic Cherry Delight

Classic Cherry Delight is a no-bake dessert that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious.

With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy filling, and a sweet cherry topping, this dessert is a timeless favorite for any occasion. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you need a quick and satisfying treat.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Ingredients Overview

• Graham Cracker Crust: A base made from crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter.
• Creamy Filling: A blend of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped topping for a light, fluffy texture.
• Cherry Topping: Canned cherry pie filling adds a tart and fruity contrast to the creamy layers.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

For the Topping

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust
   • In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
2. Make the Filling
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
   • Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
   • Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Dessert
   • Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
   • Top with the cherry pie filling, spreading it out evenly.
4. Chill and Serve
   • Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
   • Slice and serve chilled.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This no-bake dessert is a breeze: prepare the crust, mix the creamy filling, layer with cherries, and let it chill. It’s an easy way to impress guests without turning on the oven.

Recipe Tips

• For a sturdier crust, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes before chilling.
• Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Use any flavor of pie filling for variation—blueberry or strawberry are excellent choices.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for added brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling will make this dessert even more special.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is best when made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

What if I don’t have whipped topping?
You can substitute with 1 1/2 cups of homemade whipped cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Classic Cherry Delight chilled as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal. Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.

Enjoy this easy and delightful dessert that never goes out of style!

Classic Cherry Delight

Classic Cherry Delight is a no-bake dessert that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious.

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Equipment

• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Ingredients

  

• For the Crust
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• For the Filling
• 16 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz whipped topping like Cool Whip, thawed
• For the Topping
• 1 can 21 oz cherry pie filling

Instructions

 

• In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
• Make the Filling
• In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
• Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Assemble the Dessert
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
• Top with the cherry pie filling, spreading it out evenly.
• Chill and Serve
• Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
• Slice and serve chilled.