Description
Cherry Delight is a no-bake, creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust layered with a smooth cream cheese and whipped topping filling, topped with sweet cherry pie filling. This easy-to-make dessert combines textures and flavors for a refreshing treat perfect for gatherings or a simple indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping, thawed
Topping
- 21 ounces 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.
- Set the 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 help the crust set and firm up.
- Mix cream cheese filling: 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 using a low mixer speed or a spatula until everything is well combined and light.
- Assemble the layers: Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it to cover the surface completely.
- Add cherry topping: Pour the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, distributing the cherries and syrup uniformly.
- Chill and serve: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours to allow it to set and the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Freezing the crust before adding the filling helps maintain a firm texture and prevents sogginess.
- This dessert can be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated to enhance flavor.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and regular whipped topping for best texture and richness.
- Cherry pie filling can be substituted with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry for variety.
