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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to set. For best results and enhanced flavor, allow it to chill overnight.
- 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
