Classic Cherry Delight Recipe

Introduction

This Classic Cherry Delight is a simple and delicious dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a sweet cherry topping. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 container Cool Whip, 8 ounces
• 1 can cherry pie filling, 21 ounces

Instructions

1. Step 1: Add the butter to a medium bowl and microwave for 30 seconds or until melted. Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a sprayed 8 x 8 inch baking dish. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until smooth and free of lumps. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until combined, taking care not to overmix.
3. Step 3: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the graham cracker crust using a spoon or offset spatula.
4. Step 4: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer and carefully spread it out evenly.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving. For best flavor and texture, chill overnight.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the crust before adding the filling.
• Use fresh cherries or another fruit topping if cherry pie filling is unavailable.
• Make this dessert ahead of time to let flavors meld; it tastes even better the next day.

Storage

Store the Cherry Delight covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled and consume within this time for the best taste and texture. When ready to serve again, simply remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes if too firm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust for this dessert?

Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with a cookie crumble crust like vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a different flavor.

Is it necessary to refrigerate this dessert overnight?

While not required, refrigerating overnight allows the layers to set fully and develop better flavor and texture, making it more enjoyable.

Classic Cherry Delight Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 62 reviews

• Author: Elara
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 9 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Classic Cherry Delight is a no-bake, creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cream cheese and cool whip filling, finished with a luscious layer of cherry pie filling. Perfect for a quick, crowd-pleasing treat that requires minimal prep and refrigeration time.

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Ingredients

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Crust

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

Filling

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 container cool whip, 8 ounces

Topping

• 1 can cherry pie filling, 21 ounces

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Melt the unsalted butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds until fully melted. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter with graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until well combined, then firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a sprayed 8 x 8 inch baking dish to form an even crust. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and lump-free. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate. Gently fold in the cool whip until the mixture is combined but still light and fluffy; avoid overmixing to maintain the texture.
3. Assemble the Dessert: Spread the cream cheese and cool whip mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust using a spoon or an offset spatula for a smooth layer. Next, spoon the cherry pie filling over the top and carefully spread it out evenly to cover the surface.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to set. For best results and enhanced flavor, allow it to chill overnight.
5. Serve and Store: Serve chilled. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together well when serving.
• For a more intense cherry flavor, you can add a little cherry juice or syrup from the pie filling to the cream cheese mixture.
• Can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
• If you prefer a firmer crust, consider chilling it for 15 minutes before adding the filling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cherry delight, no bake dessert, graham cracker crust, cream cheese dessert, cherry pie filling dessert, easy dessert recipe