Description
This Cherry Delight recipe is a luscious no-bake dessert featuring a crisp graham cracker crust layered with a smooth, creamy cream cheese filling and topped with sweet cherry pie filling. Perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare ahead, this dessert offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks (or 8 oz whipped topping)
Topping
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar thoroughly. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust layer. Place the crust in the refrigerator and chill for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Next, carefully spoon and spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer to create a beautiful topping.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the assembled dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set properly. Once chilled, slice the dessert into squares and serve cold for a refreshing and sweet treat.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use a low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping instead of heavy cream.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with any other fruit pie filling of your choice, such as blueberry or strawberry.
- This dessert should be stored covered in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days for best freshness.
- If you prefer a firmer crust, you can bake the graham cracker crust at 350°F for 8-10 minutes before chilling, though it is optional.
