Introduction
Indulge in a delightful dessert experience that’s perfect for any gathering! This Classic Cherry Delight is a no-bake treat that combines a crunchy graham cracker crust, a creamy filling, and a luscious cherry topping. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and sure to impress your family and friends!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the Creamy Filling:
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container (12 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
- For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
Preparation Time
- Prep Time 20 minutes
- Cook Time 0 minutes
- Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield 12 servings
Directions
1. In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form a delightful base.
2. For the creamy filling, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a silky, smooth filling. Pour this mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
4. Spread the cherry pie filling over the creamy layer to create a gorgeous topping.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set. Slice into squares and serve with a smile!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to create a solid base for your dessert.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a separate bowl, beat 2 packages (8 ounces each) of softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 3: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in 1 container (12 ounces) of thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped topping; the aim is to maintain a light and airy texture. Once combined, pour the filling over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Add Cherry Topping
Carefully spread 1 can (21 ounces) of cherry pie filling over the top of the creamy layer. Make sure to cover the filling evenly with the delicious cherry topping.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Place the dessert in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until set. After chilling, slice the dessert into squares and serve with a smile!
Notes
Tip for Best Results
For easier slicing, allow the dessert to chill longer if possible. This will help the layers to set more firmly.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different pie fillings, such as blueberry or strawberry, for a twist on this classic dessert.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.
Cook Techniques
Crust Preparation
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar thoroughly, ensuring an even consistency. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to create a sturdy base that won’t crumble.
Creamy Filling
Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth to avoid lumps. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to maintain its airy texture and achieve a silky filling.
Layering
Pour the creamy filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Carefully layer the cherry pie filling on top, ensuring a visually appealing presentation with a balance of creamy and fruity layers.
Chilling
Chill the dessert for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly. This step enhances the flavors and helps the layers firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of fruit topping?
Yes, you can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit toppings like blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry to create a different flavor profile.
How long can I store the Cherry Delight?
The dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cherry Delight is perfect for making ahead of time, as it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
You can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or alternative crust options such as crushed gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free version.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can replace cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor or to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Cherry Delight is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines a creamy filling with a fruity topping, perfect for any gathering. With easy preparation techniques and the option to customize, it caters to various tastes and preferences, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
