Sometimes you need a dessert that’s as joyful to make as it is to eat, and that’s exactly where Cherry Delight shines. This nostalgic no-bake treat combines a buttery graham cracker crust, lusciously creamy filling, and a crown of glossy cherries for a sweet, crowd-pleasing confection. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to add a little sparkle to an ordinary day, Cherry Delight is the answer, and each bite delivers a burst of comfort and cheer that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cherry Delight is in its simplicity: you only need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh touches. Each ingredient is crucial, lending its charm to the finished dessert—crunch, creaminess, or jewel-toned color!

Graham cracker crumbs: The base that gives Cherry Delight its classic texture and sweet, toasty flavor.
Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs and adds rich flavor and moisture to your crust.
Granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the crumbly crust for extra balance.
Cream cheese, softened: The creamy, tangy heart of the filling that brings a bold, satisfying richness.
Powdered sugar: Dissolves smoothly into the cream cheese, so the filling is brilliantly sweet and satiny.
Vanilla extract: Adds fragrant, warm undertones that compliment the luscious cherries on top.
Whipped topping, thawed: Folds into the filling to make it extra fluffy and airy, almost mousse-like.
Cherry pie filling: The star of the show! Bursting, glistening cherries give Cherry Delight its signature look and irresistible flavor.

How to Make Cherry Delight

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by stirring together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Use a fork (or even your hands!) to make sure the butter evenly coats all the crumbs, so everything sticks together deliciously. Once mixed, press this goodness firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish—try to make a flat, compact surface for the cream cheese layer to rest on.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending it all together for a uniformly sweet and fragrant base. Now, gently fold in the whipped topping—you want to combine without deflating it, so the filling stays impossibly light and fluffy.

Step 3: Assemble and Chill

Spread your cloud-like cream cheese mixture evenly across the graham cracker crust, smoothing it gently with a spatula all the way out to the edges. Pour the cherry pie filling across the top and carefully spread it to cover completely. The deep red cherries should cloak the top in glossy beauty—resist the urge to dive in right away! Instead, cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until perfectly set and chilled.

How to Serve Cherry Delight

Garnishes

For that extra special finish, sprinkle a handful of crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans over the cherries just before serving. A dollop of whipped cream on each piece adds a festive touch and contrasts beautifully with the colorful cherries.

Side Dishes

Cherry Delight pairs wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee or an after-dinner espresso. If you’re serving at a potluck or picnic, sliced fresh fruit or a platter of crisp vanilla wafers can round out the dessert table. The tangy cherries also play well with a simple lemon or pistachio ice cream for a fun dessert duo!

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to take things up a notch, try assembling Cherry Delight in individual jars or clear parfait glasses for an elegant single-serve option. Want a bite-sized treat? Layer the ingredients in mini cupcake liners or silicone molds—everyone will love their own little cherry-topped delight. For holidays, add a few chocolate curls or edible gold dust over the top for sparkle and glamour!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Cherry Delight (a rare occurrence!), simply cover the baking dish tightly or transfer slices into airtight containers. Store in the fridge, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld together more as it sits, making leftovers an extra treat.

Freezing

You can freeze Cherry Delight for longer storage. Just slice into portions, place them in freezer-safe containers separated by parchment, and freeze up to a month. Thaw slices in the fridge overnight for best results; the texture will still be creamy and dreamy.

Reheating

Cherry Delight is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. In fact, letting it chill before serving keeps the layers intact and the flavors bright and refreshing! If frozen, make sure to thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cherry topping instead of canned?

Absolutely! A homemade cherry compote works beautifully with Cherry Delight. Just make sure it’s thick enough to spoon over the creamy layer so it doesn’t run. The fresh, slightly tart flavor of homemade cherry topping brings your dessert to the next level!

Is there a substitute for whipped topping?

If you prefer a homemade touch, you can swap out store-bought whipped topping for freshly whipped cream. Whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons sugar until stiff peaks form, and fold it into the cream cheese mixture as directed.

Can I make Cherry Delight gluten free?

Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, and double-check that your other ingredients (like pie filling) are gluten free. The taste and texture will still be amazing, so everyone can enjoy a slice.

How far ahead can I prepare Cherry Delight?

This dessert is the make-ahead hero of any gathering. You can prepare Cherry Delight fully up to 24 hours in advance, which actually gives the flavors more time to mingle and makes serving even easier right from the fridge.

Can I use a different fruit topping?

Of course! While cherry pie filling is the star here, you can easily swap in blueberry, strawberry, or even peach pie filling for a fun twist on the classic. The creamy filling and crunchy crust are the perfect base for all kinds of fruity toppings.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and celebratory about sharing Cherry Delight with the people you love. Each layer is irresistibly simple, nostalgic, and completely delicious. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your friends to this sunny dessert, and see for yourself why Cherry Delight is always a hit!

Cherry Delight Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 16 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the creamy, fruity goodness of Cherry Delight, a no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make treat features layers of graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, and luscious cherry pie topping. A delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more!

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

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

Cream Cheese Filling:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

Topping:

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

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Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cream Cheese Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then fold in whipped topping.
Assembly: Spread cream cheese mixture over crust, top with cherry pie filling, and chill for at least 2 hours.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or chopped pecans on top before serving.
This dessert can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American