Cherry Delight is a timeless dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, dreamy filling, topped with sweet and tangy cherry pie filling. This no-bake dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to potlucks, and it’s incredibly easy to make. Its layers of texture and flavor make it a delightful treat that will impress everyone.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip
For the Topping:
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Crush the Graham Crackers:
- Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. If you don’t have a food processor, place the crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are well coated and hold together when pressed.
- Form the Crust:
- Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to firmly pack the crust. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and smooth.
- Fold in the Cool Whip:
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip with a spatula until the mixture is light and fluffy and no streaks remain.
- Spread the Filling:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Add the Topping
- Spread the Cherry Pie Filling:
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Chill:
- Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Crust Variations: For a twist, try using crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers.
- Filling Variations: Add a bit of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- Topping Options: Swap out the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or even apple pie filling to change things up.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: For a more homemade touch, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. Simply beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time? A: Yes, Cherry Delight is a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before you plan to serve it and let it chill overnight. This will help the layers set and enhance the flavors.
Q: How should I store Cherry Delight? A: Store Cherry Delight covered in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. For best results, keep it chilled until just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Cherry Delight? A: Yes, you can freeze Cherry Delight. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: What if I don’t have Cool Whip? A: If you don’t have Cool Whip, you can substitute with homemade whipped cream. Beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, then fold into the cream cheese mixture.
Q: Can I use low-fat ingredients? A: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese and a light version of Cool Whip to reduce the calorie content. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Classic Cherry Delight is a simple yet delicious dessert that brings a burst of sweetness and a creamy texture to your table. Its easy preparation and no-bake nature make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a special event, this delightful dessert is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the luscious layers of graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and cherry topping that make this dessert a timeless favorite.
