Classic Cherry Delight Recipe

Introduction

Classic Cherry Delight is a simple, no-bake dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy cream cheese filling and a sweet cherry topping. It’s perfect for warm days or anytime you want a quick, refreshing treat.

Ingredients

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ 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. Microwave for 30 seconds or until melted. Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar, then mix well to combine.
2. Step 2: Pat the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a sprayed 8 x 8 baking dish. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and lump-free using a mixer.
4. Step 4: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and mix well.
5. Step 5: Fold in the Cool Whip gently until combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Step 6: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust using a spoon or offset spatula.
7. Step 7: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top and carefully spread it evenly over the filling layer.
8. Step 8: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. For best flavor, refrigerate overnight.

Tips & Variations

• Use crushed Oreo cookies instead of graham crackers for a chocolate crust variation.
• For a tangier filling, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
• Top with sliced almonds or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Classic Cherry Delight covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled, and if desired, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you may need to sweeten them and thicken with a bit of cornstarch to achieve a similar texture.

Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream cheese and Cool Whip with dairy-free alternatives, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Classic Cherry Delight Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 56 reviews

Classic Cherry Delight is a no-bake, creamy dessert featuring a graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cream cheese and cool whip filling, finished with a sweet cherry pie topping. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for gatherings and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 9 servings (8 x 8-inch pan) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 ½ 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
• 1 can cherry pie filling, 21 ounces

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: 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 to form an even crust. Set aside.
2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until smooth and free of lumps. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Fold in the cool whip gently until the mixture is combined, taking care not to overmix.
3. Assemble the dessert: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust using a spoon or offset spatula. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top and carefully spread it evenly over the filling layer.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to set. For best results, chill overnight.
5. Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Notes

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• For a firmer crust, you can refrigerate it for 15 minutes before adding the filling.
• This dessert is best served chilled and within 3-4 days of making.
• You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or peach if desired.

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