Description
Classic Cherry Delight is a no-bake, creamy dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust layered with a smooth cream cheese filling and topped with sweet cherry pie filling. Perfect for gatherings or a refreshing treat, this easy-to-make dessert requires minimal prep and chilling 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 butter in a medium bowl in the microwave for about 30 seconds until fully liquefied.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: Combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar with the melted butter, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Form the Crust: Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking dish, creating an even layer. Set aside this crust.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes smooth and free of lumps for a creamy texture.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture to maintain lightness and smooth consistency.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese and Cool Whip filling over the prepared graham cracker crust in the baking dish.
- Add Cherry Topping: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer and spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling when slicing the dessert.
- Chilling overnight enhances the texture and flavor combination.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves for extra visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
