Introduction
I recently made Classic Cherry Delight for a family gathering, and I must say, it was an instant hit! This no-bake dessert is so simple to prepare yet tastes absolutely divine. My family loved it – from the crunchy graham cracker crust to the creamy cheesecake filling, all topped off with the sweet and tart cherry pie filling. It’s one of those desserts that will make you wonder how something so delicious can be so easy to make. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue or just want something light and refreshing after dinner, Classic Cherry Delight is the perfect treat to bring to the table.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers, crushed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz Cool Whip (or whipped cream)
For the Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture is moist.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, using a spoon or the back of a glass to pack it down firmly.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and beat until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip (or whipped cream), mixing until the filling is light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Dessert:
- Once the graham cracker crust has chilled, spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust.
- Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake filling, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- After the dessert has chilled, slice it into squares and serve. You can garnish with additional whipped cream or fresh cherries if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 square (1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
How to Serve
- Serve cold: This dessert is best when served chilled, so make sure to keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it.
- Garnish with extra cherries: For a fun presentation, add some fresh cherries or extra pie filling on top.
- Add whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an added touch of creaminess.
Additional Tips
- Crust Variations: You can use different types of crumbs for the crust, such as digestive biscuits, shortbread cookies, or even Oreos for a chocolatey twist.
- Use Fresh Cherries: If you prefer a more natural topping, use fresh or frozen cherries that have been cooked down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a cherry topping.
- Make it Lighter: For a lighter version, use light cream cheese and sugar-free Cool Whip.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese is softened before mixing to prevent lumps in the filling.
- Chill Longer: If you have the time, let the dessert chill overnight. The flavors develop better, and the texture becomes firmer.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Cherry Delight: Use a chocolate graham cracker crust and mix in mini chocolate chips into the filling for an extra chocolaty flavor.
- Strawberry Delight: Swap out the cherry pie filling for strawberry or blueberry pie filling to change up the fruit topping.
- Peach Delight: For a summer twist, top with peach pie filling instead of cherries. Fresh peaches can also be used for a lighter, fresher taste.
- Nutty Crust: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the graham cracker crust for extra crunch and flavor.
- Coconut Delight: Stir in some shredded coconut to the filling or crust for a tropical flair.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for Potlucks: This dessert is a great choice for family gatherings, picnics, and potlucks because it’s easy to transport and doesn’t require any baking.
- Serve with Coffee: The creamy cheesecake filling and tart cherry topping pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
- Pair with Other Desserts: If you’re hosting a dessert party, serve Cherry Delight alongside other no-bake treats like chocolate mousse, lemon bars, or fruit tarts.
Freezing and Storage
- Storing: Store any leftover Cherry Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze Cherry Delight for up to 2 months. After assembling, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Freezing Individual Portions: For convenient serving, slice the dessert into individual pieces, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer the pieces to a freezer bag for easy access.
FAQ Section
- Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, homemade whipped cream works just fine. Just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks before folding it into the cream cheese mixture. - Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, Classic Cherry Delight actually tastes better when made a day ahead, as the flavors have more time to meld. - Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! You can use other types of cookies or even a store-bought crust if you’re short on time. - Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make the crust. - How do I store leftover Cherry Delight?
Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. - Can I use a different fruit topping?
Yes, any canned fruit filling or fresh fruit (such as blueberries or strawberries) can be used instead of cherry pie filling. - Is this dessert vegetarian?
Yes, Cherry Delight is vegetarian-friendly, as long as you use a vegetarian-friendly whipped topping. - Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, using low-fat cream cheese will reduce the calorie content without sacrificing much flavor. - Can I freeze Cherry Delight?
Yes, this dessert freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly. - How do I make a thicker filling?
To make the filling firmer, you can add a little more powdered sugar or even some gelatin if desired.
Conclusion
Classic Cherry Delight is one of those timeless desserts that never goes out of style. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, special occasion, or simply because you want a sweet treat, this dessert is sure to satisfy your cravings. The combination of the crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and tangy cherry topping makes each bite irresistible. So, gather your ingredients and give this delightful dessert a try—you won’t regret it!