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Cherry Delight

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Cherry Delight is a creamy, no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and a luscious cherry topping. This classic treat is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you need an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No-bake and easy – Minimal effort with maximum flavor.
  • Rich and creamy – A velvety cream cheese layer with a buttery crust.
  • Perfect for gatherings – Feeds a crowd and looks beautiful.
  • Customizable – Swap toppings or add flavors to the filling.
  • Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for prepping in advance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Sugar
  • Butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • Cream cheese, softened
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)

For the Topping:

  • Cherry pie filling

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Make the Crust

  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until combined.
  2. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

  1. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. Gently fold in whipped topping to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
  3. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Topping

  1. Evenly spread cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.

Step 4: Serve

  • Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12-16
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate Cherry Delight – Use Oreo crumbs for the crust.
  • Strawberry Delight – Swap cherry pie filling for strawberries.
  • Nutty Crunch – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust.
  • Lemon Twist – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling.
  • Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, covered.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes! Beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tbsp powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

What’s the best way to slice Cherry Delight?

Chill thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices.

Can I make this in a smaller pan?

Yes! Use an 8×8-inch pan for a thicker filling layer.

Can I use a different fruit topping?

Absolutely! Try blueberry, raspberry, or peach pie filling.

Is this dessert overly sweet?

It’s perfectly balanced, but you can reduce the sugar in the filling if desired.

Can I make this dessert the night before?

Yes! It tastes even better after chilling overnight.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

Try digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies.

Can I add fresh cherries?

Yes! Pit and halve fresh cherries and mix with a little sugar for a natural topping.

How do I make it extra firm?

Increase the chilling time or add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the cream cheese mixture.

Can I add chocolate to this recipe?

Yes! Try a chocolate drizzle on top or mix chocolate chips into the filling.

Conclusion

Cherry Delight is an easy, no-bake dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a summer BBQ, holiday dinner, or as a weeknight treat, this simple yet indulgent dessert will always be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a slice of creamy cherry goodness!

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Cherry Delight

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2-4 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours
  • Yield: 8–10 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

This Cherry Delight is a creamy, no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cheesecake-style filling, and a sweet cherry topping. It’s simple to make, light, and perfect for any occasion—especially when you need a delicious dessert with minimal effort!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 crackers, finely crushed)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Creamy Filling:

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream, see notes)

For the Topping:

  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

  1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
  2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish.
  3. Chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to set.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Gently fold in Cool Whip until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

  1. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
  2. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

  1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight for best results).
  2. Slice and serve chilled!

Notes

  • Make It Homemade: Swap Cool Whip for 1 cup homemade whipped cream (whip ½ cup heavy cream + 1 tbsp sugar).
  • Crust Alternative: Use vanilla wafer crumbs or crushed shortbread cookies for a different base.
  • Other Toppings: Try blueberry, strawberry, or peach pie filling for a fun variation!
  • Make Ahead: Can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

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