Description
Cherry Delight is a creamy, no-bake layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cream cheese filling and finished with a luscious cherry pie topping. Perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare ahead, this dessert combines sweet, tangy cherries with velvety textures for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks (or 8 oz whipped topping)
Topping
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Place the crust in the refrigerator and chill for 20 to 30 minutes to firm up.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, taking care not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Assemble the Dessert: Remove the chilled crust from the refrigerator and evenly spread the cream cheese filling over it with a spatula. Next, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, creating a vibrant and glossy topping.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the assembled dessert with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld. When ready, slice the dessert into squares and serve chilled for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use whipped topping instead of heavy whipping cream.
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together well.
- This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but is best served within 24 hours.
- For variety, substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry.
