If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect dessert that’s both creamy and refreshingly fruity, the Classic Cherry Delight Cheesecake Recipe is here to make that dream come true. This no-bake cheesecake combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious cream cheese filling, all topped with a vibrant cherry pie filling that bursts with color and sweetness. It’s wonderfully simple to make, yet delivers such an elegant treat that will delight family and friends for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, essential ingredients that come together harmoniously. Each item plays a vital role in building that dreamy texture and flavor—from the crisp, buttery crust to the velvety filling and the bright cherry topping that makes every bite a celebration.
- Unsalted butter, 7 tablespoons: Melted to hold the graham cracker crust together with a rich buttery flavor.
- Graham cracker crumbs, 1½ cups (about 9 whole crackers): The foundation for the crust, giving a sweet crunch.
- Granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons: Sweetens the crust just enough to marry perfectly with the tangy filling.
- Cream cheese, 8 ounces, softened: Creates the creamy base of the cheesecake with its smooth, slightly tangy richness.
- Powdered sugar, 1 cup: Blends seamlessly into the filling for a silky sweet touch.
- Pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the flavor, adding a warm, aromatic note.
- Cool Whip, 8 ounces (1 container): Adds lightness and fluff to the filling, keeping it airy.
- Cherry pie filling, 21 ounces (1 can): The starring topping, providing sweet, juicy bursts of cherry that transform the dessert into a delight.
How to Make Classic Cherry Delight Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium bowl—microwave it for about 30 seconds until fully melted. Then, stir in the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar until everything is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking dish to form a solid crust base. This step is key to achieving that perfect crunch that supports the creamy filling beautifully.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth and free of lumps—this is how you get that velvety texture. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated. Then gently fold in the Cool Whip, making sure not to overmix so the filling stays light and fluffy, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake
Spread the creamy filling evenly over your prepared graham cracker crust with a spoon or an offset spatula. Take your time here for a smooth, flawless layer that both looks and tastes amazing. Next, spoon the cherry pie filling over the top and gently spread it out to create a glossy, colorful finish. The cherries add that final touch of sweetness and juicy pop!
Step 4: Chill to Perfection
Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least two hours to allow it to set properly—overnight chilling produces the best results. This resting time helps the flavors meld and the filling become firm enough to slice perfectly, without losing any of its creamy goodness.
How to Serve Classic Cherry Delight Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the look and flavor of your cheesecake with fresh garnishes. Consider a few fresh cherries or a sprinkle of finely grated dark chocolate for a sophisticated touch. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a small dollop of whipped cream on each slice can also make your presentation feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or a small bowl of mixed berries to complement the cherry topping. For a crunchy contrast, serve with some toasted almonds or a side of nut brittle. A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea completes the perfect dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the cheesecake into bite-sized squares and serve them on a dessert platter for parties. Layer individual servings in small mason jars with extra cherries between layers for a charming look. You can even add a little drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce to customize each portion according to your mood.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Classic Cherry Delight Cheesecake Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, maintaining its creamy texture and vibrant cherry topping.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cheesecake later, freezing is a great option. Wrap the dessert tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, ensuring it retains its perfect texture.
Reheating
Because this cheesecake is best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Let it come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving if you prefer a softer texture, but avoid heat to keep that creamy consistency intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used if you prefer. Just cook them down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a pie filling consistency that will spread nicely over the cheesecake.
Is it necessary to use Cool Whip in the filling?
Cool Whip lightens the filling and adds fluffiness, but you can substitute it with homemade whipped cream if you want a more natural version. Just fold in whipped cream gently to maintain the airy texture.
Can this cheesecake be made vegan or dairy-free?
With some adjustments, yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan butter substitutes, and a non-dairy whipped topping. The graham cracker crust may require checking ingredients as some contain honey.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill before serving?
At least 2 hours in the refrigerator is necessary for the cheesecake to set properly. For the best texture and flavor, chilling overnight is ideal.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Doubling the recipe works great. Just use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13 inch, and increase chilling time slightly to ensure it sets properly.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the joy of slicing into a Classic Cherry Delight Cheesecake Recipe that’s creamy, sweet, and topped with luscious cherries. This recipe is simple enough for any home cook to make but impressive enough to serve at special occasions. I truly hope you give it a try and share it with your favorite people—it’s one dessert that brings smiles all around!
Print
Classic Cherry Delight Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Cherry Delight is an easy no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cream cheese and Cool Whip filling, topped with sweet cherry pie filling. Perfect for gatherings, this chilled treat requires minimal preparation and no baking.
Ingredients
Crust
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 container Cool Whip (8 ounces)
Topping
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Add the butter to a medium bowl and microwave for 30 seconds or until melted. Combine the melted butter with graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar, mixing well to ensure uniform consistency. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a sprayed 8 x 8 inch baking dish to form an even crust layer. Set aside.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until well incorporated. Fold in the Cool Whip gently until combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spread the cream cheese and Cool Whip filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust using a spoon or offset spatula. Then, carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the top layer and spread it evenly without disturbing the filling beneath.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly. For optimal flavor and texture, refrigerate overnight before serving.
- Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover dessert refrigerated in an airtight container for maintaining freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overmix when adding Cool Whip to keep the filling light and airy.
- For best results, prepare the dessert a day in advance to enhance flavors and texture.
- This dessert is best served chilled and should be kept refrigerated until serving.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry for variety.
