Grandma’s Cherry Delight Dessert Recipe

Grandma’s Cherry Delight is a timeless, no-bake dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With its buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet-tart cherry pie topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just because. This classic dessert brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite and will quickly become a family favorite!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to set.

Make the Filling:

1. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.

Assemble the Dessert:

1. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover the top.

Chill and Serve:

1. Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled.
2. Slice into squares and serve.

Recipe Tips

• Make it Your Own: Swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or any fruit topping you love.
• Add Texture: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts over the cherry topping for extra crunch.
• Whipped Cream Alternative: If you prefer homemade whipped cream, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use it in place of the whipped topping.

What to Serve with Cherry Delight

Pair this dessert with a cup of coffee or a dollop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It’s also delightful alongside other holiday favorites like chocolate mousse or fruit salads.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cherry Delight tastes even better after a night in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

3. Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! Try using crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for a twist.

Grandma’s Cherry Delight is a classic dessert that’s simple, delicious, and sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table!

Grandma’s Cherry Delight

Grandma’s Cherry Delight is a timeless, no-bake dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With its buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet-tart cherry pie topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just because.

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Equipment

• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped topping like Cool Whip
• 1 can 21 oz cherry pie filling

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Crust:
• In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
• Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to set.
• Make the Filling:
• In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
• Assemble the Dessert:
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
• Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
• Chill and Serve:
• Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled.
• Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

Make it Your Own: Swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or any fruit topping you love.
Add Texture: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts over the cherry topping for extra crunch.