Classic Cherry Delight – Experience the taste of our Classic Cherry Delight, an American dessert that is ideal, for any occasion. This recipe showcases a graham cracker crust, a cream cheese filling, and a delectable cherry pie topping resulting in a harmonious mix of flavors and textures. The key ingredients include butter, graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, Cool Whip, and cherry pie filling. Perfect for those seeking a delightful treat this dessert can be prepared in 30 minutes. Making it a favorite among busy home cooks and dessert enthusiasts.
The first time I whipped up this Classic Cherry Delight was for a family gathering where I needed something satisfyingly delicious. Even though my husband typically favors savory dishes, over sweet ones he was initially skeptical but ended up enjoying it so much that he went back for seconds. My little one couldn’t get enough of the cherry layer paired with the creamy filling. Turning this recipe into a household favorite. It has now become a staple during our family celebrations by bringing smiles and fulfilling our cravings every time.
What makes this Classic Cherry Delight truly special?
What sets this Classic Cherry Delight apart is its simplicity combined with the balance of flavors. The flaky crust adds a contrast, to the velvety, luscious filling and the succulent cherry topping. This recipe doesn’t require baking so you can whip it up quickly and it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a relaxed get-together with friends. You can also personalize the recipe to your liking by trying out fruity toppings or adding a layer of chocolate, for an extra indulgent touch.
What You Need To Make This Classic Cherry Delight Recipe?
Unsalted Butter: We choose unsalted butter, for this creation allowing the natural richness of the butter to shine without overpowering the dessert with saltiness. Using butter is essential in achieving a crumbly yet firm crust.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: The heart and soul of our crust graham crackers bring a subtly nutty flavor creating a foundation for the layers to follow. Make sure they are finely crushed for a smoother texture.
Granulated Sugar: Just a hint of granulated sugar is all it takes to transform our crust into an embrace balancing out the elements of the butter and the tanginess of the cream cheese.
Cream Cheese: The standout ingredient in our layer, cream cheese brings everything together. Ensure it is well softened to achieve that velvety texture we all crave in a cheesecake-inspired dessert.
Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar this ingredient adds sweetness to the cream cheese dissolving seamlessly for a luxurious consistency.
Pure Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla goes a long way adding an aromatic depth, to the cream cheese layer and enhancing the overall sweetness of this delightful dessert.
Cool Whip: This fluffy topping gives the filling a texture making the dessert feel light and airy, with every bite. It’s the ingredient that adds a touch of indulgence without weighing it down much.
Cherry Pie Filling: The star of our Classic Cherry Delight this fruity layer brings a balance of tanginess and sweetness. It beautifully complements the cream cheese adding a burst of flavor to the mix.
Steps To Make Classic Cherry Delight:
For the crust:
Step 1: Take a bowl and microwave the butter for about 30 seconds until it is completely melted.
Step 2: Combine the butter with graham crackers and white sugar making sure to mix them well together.
Step 3: Press this mixture into the bottom of an 8 x 8 baking dish that has been lightly coated with cooking spray creating your crust. Set it aside for now.
For the filling:
Step 4: In a bowl use a mixer to beat the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and free of lumps.
Step 5: Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, to the cream cheese continuing to mix until they are thoroughly combined.
Step 6: Gently fold in the whipped topping being careful not to overmix.
To assemble:
Step 7: Using a spoon or an offset spatula evenly spread the mixture over your graham cracker crust.
Step 8: Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer spreading it out evenly.
Step 9: Place the dish in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill, for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight if you have enough time.
Step 10: Enjoy your dessert! Make sure to put any leftovers in the refrigerator so that this delicious dessert stays fresh and tasty for your craving.
Tip:
To ensure a smoother texture in your cream cheese filling it’s important to start by chilling your mixing bowl and whisk in the refrigerator, for 15 to 20 minutes. This simple step makes a difference as it helps stabilize the whipped topping. Creates a creamier more luxurious filling. Additionally chilling the tools ensures that all the ingredients blend seamlessly resulting in a dessert, with a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Of course! You’re welcome to try out fruit fillings according to your liking or what’s currently in season.
How long does the Classic Cherry Delight last in the fridge?
When kept in the refrigerator, under certain conditions the Classic Cherry Delight should remain delicious and fresh for 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this dessert?
Certainly! Freezing Classic Cherry Delight is an option. Make sure to cover it to prevent freezer burn and remember to thaw it in the refrigerator, before serving.
Classic Cherry Delight
- Total Time: 30 MINS
- Yield: 9 1x
Description
Indulge yourself in the realm of desserts, with the Classic Cherry Delight—a creation that effortlessly combines simplicity and sophistication in each delectable bite. This delightful treat features a buttery and crumbly base made from graham crackers followed by a luxurious and velvety cream cheese filling all topped off with a cherry pie topping. The interplay between the tangy cherries and the smooth cream cheese is truly divine while the addition of the graham cracker crust brings everything together harmoniously. Whether it’s for family gatherings, occasions or as a delightful way to end your day this recipe is both easy to prepare and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
CRUST:
7 tbsp unsalted butter
1 1/2 c graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
3 tbsp granulated sugar
FILLING:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 c powdered sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
8 oz cool whip
21 oz cherry pie filling
Instructions
For the crust:
Start by melting 7 tablespoons of butter in a medium-sized bowl using the microwave.
Once melted add 1 ½ cups of crushed graham cracker crumbs and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, to the butter. Mix everything together until well combined.
Take an 8×8-inch baking dish. Spray it with non-stick spray. Press the mixture firmly onto the bottom of the dish. Set it aside.
For the filling:
In a bowl take 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Use a mixer to blend it until smooth and free from lumps.
Add 1 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese continuing to mix until well combined.
Gently fold in 8 ounces of Cool Whip being careful not to overmix.
Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
To finish:
Carefully spoon out 21 ounces of cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer spreading it out so that it covers the surface nicely.
Place your dish in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least two hours or for even better results, overnight.
Chilled, cut into squares and serve them cold from your homemade Classic Cherry Delight!
Store any leftovers, in the refrigerator.
Enjoy!
Notes
It’s so convenient these days to enjoy desserts even if you’re following a gluten-free diet! To make our Classic Cherry Delight gluten-free simply swap out the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free alternative of your choice. You can try brands, like ‘Kinnikinnick’ or ‘Schar’ which offer options that will give you the texture and sweetness of the crust. When picking your cherry pie filling be sure to check the ingredients list for any hidden sources of gluten or potential cross-contamination risks. Luckily there are brands out that provide gluten alternatives so that every layer of your dessert can meet your dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 30 MINS
My name is Natasha and I am the owner of nodashofgluten.com, a blog dedicated to all kinds of recipes. On my website, you can find classic dishes, vegetarian delights, creative snacks, Gluten-free recipes, and desserts – all proving that cooking isn’t as hard as it seems! With easy-to-follow instructions and tips on how to make your meals even better, I strive to help everyone become master chefs in their own kitchen. Come join me at nodashofgluten.com for some delicious fun!
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