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
Scale
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.
