Classic Cherry Delight

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Author: Olivia
Published:
Delicious Classic Cherry Delight dessert with cherries and cream.

why make this recipe

Classic Cherry Delight is quick to make. It needs few steps and tastes fresh and sweet. It is a good dessert for family or guests when you want an easy, pretty dish.

introduction

This dessert has a crunchy graham crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and bright cherry topping. It comes together fast and chills in the fridge. If you like chilled, no-bake treats, try the classic cheese ball recipe for another simple party option.

how to make Classic Cherry Delight

  1. Make the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mix into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan. Chill to set.
  2. Make the filling by beating cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Fold in the cool whip until you have a light, even mix.
  3. Spread the filling over the chilled crust in an even layer.
  4. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer and spread gently.
  5. Chill the whole pan for at least 2 hours so it becomes firm. For best results chill 3–4 hours.

Ingredients :

  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 container cool whip, 8 ounces
  • 1 can cherry pie filling, 21 ounces

Directions :

CRUST

  • Melt the butter.
  • Mix the graham crumbs and granulated sugar in a bowl.
  • Add the melted butter and stir until all crumbs are moistened.
  • Press the mix firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan. Chill while you make the filling.

FILLING

  • Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  • Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until blended.
  • Fold in the cool whip with a spatula until light and even.
  • Spread the filling over the chilled crust.
  • Top evenly with the cherry pie filling.
  • Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

how to serve Classic Cherry Delight

Cut into squares and serve cold. Use a sharp knife for clean slices. You can add a small dollop of extra whipped cream or a fresh cherry on top for a nice look.

how to store Classic Cherry Delight

Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not leave it at room temperature for more than two hours. You can freeze pieces wrapped well for up to 1 month, but the texture may change after thawing.

tips to make Classic Cherry Delight

  • Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Press the crust firmly so it holds the filling well.
  • Fold the cool whip gently to keep the filling light.
  • Chill well so the dessert slices cleanly.
  • Use a warmed knife (run under hot water and dry) for neater cuts.

variation (if any)

  • Use blueberry or strawberry pie filling instead of cherry.
  • Add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries under the cherry topping.
  • Mix a little lemon zest into the cream cheese for a bright flavor.
  • Make individual servings in small jars or cups for parties.

FAQs

Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese or cool whip?
A: Yes. The dessert will still turn out, but the texture may be a bit less rich.

Q: Do I need to bake the crust?
A: No. This crust uses melted butter and pressed crumbs. Chilling is enough to set it.

Q: How long does it need to chill?
A: Chill at least 2 hours. For firmer slices chill 3–4 hours.

Q: Can I make it the day before?
A: Yes. Make it a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge for the best flavor and ease.

Print
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Classic Cherry Delight

  • Author: arianarecipes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 135 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A quick and refreshing dessert with a crunchy graham crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and bright cherry topping.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 container cool whip, 8 ounces
  • 1 can cherry pie filling, 21 ounces

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter.
  2. Mix the graham crumbs and granulated sugar in a bowl.
  3. Add the melted butter and stir until all crumbs are moistened.
  4. Press the mix firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan. Chill while you make the filling.
  5. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  6. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat until blended.
  7. Fold in the cool whip with a spatula until light and even.
  8. Spread the filling over the chilled crust.
  9. Top evenly with the cherry pie filling.
  10. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

For best results, chill for 3-4 hours. Use a warmed knife for clean slices.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 270
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Ariana’s Delicious Moments
Hi, I’m Ariana!

A self-taught home cook who loves creating everyday recipes that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly. This blog is where I share the meals I actually make from quick weeknight dinners to sweet weekend treats.Let’s cook together!

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