Description
Cherry Delight is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy sweetened cream cheese and whipped topping layer, and a luscious cherry pie filling topping. This easy-to-make treat requires minimal preparation and chilling time, making it perfect for gatherings or a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and sugar mixture.
- Set Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer. Place the dish in the freezer for 15 minutes to allow the crust to set and firm up.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Mix at low speed until well combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped topping.
- Assemble Filling Layer: Spoon the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Spread it smoothly to cover the entire surface.
- Add Cherry Topping: Pour the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover the dessert.
- Chill Dessert: Cover the assembled dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully chilled and set. This allows the flavors to meld and the layers to firm up before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping for a rich flavor and creamy texture.
- Feel free to substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry for variety.
- Make sure to thaw the whipped topping completely before folding it into the cream cheese mixture to avoid lumps.
- This dessert is best served chilled and should be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a crunchier crust, use a food processor to finely grind the graham crackers before mixing.
