Description
Cherry Delight is a no-bake dessert that features a buttery graham cracker crust layered with a creamy sweetened cream cheese mixture and topped with a luscious cherry pie filling. Perfectly chilled for a refreshing treat, this dessert is simple to prepare and ideal for gatherings or any occasion where you want a sweet, fruity finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping, thawed
Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are well coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. This will form the base of your dessert.
- Set the Crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish, creating a firm crust. Place the dish in the freezer for 15 minutes to allow the crust to set and solidify.
- Make the 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 with no lumps.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Mix at a low speed just until fully combined, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Assemble the Layers: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust and spread it out to cover the entire surface.
- Add Cherry Pie Filling: Carefully pour the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer and spread it out evenly with the back of a spoon.
- Chill to Set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld together before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese to ensure a rich texture.
- Make sure the whipped topping is fully thawed before folding into the cream cheese mixture to avoid lumps.
- This dessert can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated until ready to serve.
- For a different flavor, try swapping cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry.
- If you prefer a firmer crust, press firmly into the dish and chill longer before adding the cream cheese layer.
