Description
Cherry Delight is a no-bake, creamy dessert featuring a graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cream cheese and whipped topping layer, finished with a sweet and tangy cherry pie filling. Perfect for easy prep, this chilled treat is ideal for gatherings and offers a refreshing fruity flavor with a rich, creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping, thawed
Topping
- 21 oz cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer. Freeze for 15 minutes to allow the crust to set and harden.
- Make the cream cheese filling: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently and mix on low speed just until combined to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble the dessert: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire base. Pour the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out for an even top layer.
- Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to chill properly before serving.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry for variety.
- If you prefer a firmer crust, press the crumb mixture firmly and consider adding an extra tablespoon of melted butter.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator.
- Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
