Unveil the timeless appeal of Classic Cherry Delight, a dessert that’s both visually striking and deliciously satisfying. This dessert layers a crunchy graham cracker crust with a smooth, creamy filling, and a luscious cherry topping. It’s the perfect ending to any meal, ideal for celebrations, family gatherings, or just a sweet ending to a weekday dinner.
A Dessert Everyone Will Love
Classic Cherry Delight is known for its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors. It combines the rich texture of cream cheese with the sweet tartness of cherries, all set on a buttery graham cracker base. This no-bake dessert not only looks impressive but is also wonderfully simple to make.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Cherry Delight
- Crust Creation: Ensure the graham cracker crust is well-combined and firmly pressed into the dish to create a solid base that will hold up the layers.
- Smooth Filling: Beat the cream cheese until completely smooth before adding sugar and vanilla to avoid lumps in your creamy layer.
- Gentle Folding: Carefully fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture to keep the filling light and fluffy.
- Even Topping: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top to ensure every slice is beautifully topped with cherries.
- Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Recipe for Classic Cherry Delight
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours
- Serving: Serves 12
- Equipment: 9×13 inch dish
Whether you’re making this for a special occasion or a simple family dessert, this recipe is sure to impress with its delightful layers and flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Directions:
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until well incorporated.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Then, carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the top, spreading it out to cover the cream layer.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until it is firm and set.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish each piece with additional whipped cream or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for an extra touch of elegance.
Enjoy Your Cherry Delight
This Classic Cherry Delight is not just a dessert it’s a celebration of simple, yet delightful flavors that come together in a visually appealing and delicious way. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dessert that’s sure to receive compliments from all who taste it. Enjoy the combination of textures and the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite.
