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- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of your graham crackers)
For the Creamy Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries if in season)
How to Make Cherry Delight Dessert
Making Cherry Delight is simple and requires just a few steps. Follow this easy guide for a dessert everyone will rave about:
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar (if using). Stir until everything is well combined, and the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even, compact crust. You can use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down firmly. Once the crust is in place, refrigerate it for about 15-20 minutes to set while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step to get the texture just right.
Once the cream cheese and sugar are fully blended, fold in the whipped topping and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and combined. This creamy mixture will serve as the second layer of your dessert.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
Once your crust has set, take it out of the fridge. Spread the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing it out into an even layer.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping
Now, spread the cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries) over the creamy layer. If you’re using pie filling, make sure to spoon it on gently so it doesn’t disturb the creamy layer underneath. You can also garnish the topping with a few extra cherries or fresh whipped cream if desired.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Cover the assembled dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2-3 hours, or until it is fully set. The longer it chills, the more the layers will firm up, allowing for perfect, sliceable pieces.
Why Cherry Delight is the Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser
- Easy to Customize: Cherry Delight is incredibly versatile. While the classic cherry topping is a favorite, you can easily swap out the cherry pie filling for other fruit toppings such as blueberries, strawberries, or even peach pie filling. You can even add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or sprinkle on some toasted coconut for a unique twist.
- Light and Refreshing: The creamy filling and fruity topping make this dessert light yet satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of rich and refreshing, so you won’t feel overly stuffed after a slice, making it a great choice for warm-weather gatherings.
- Great for Meal Prepping: If you’re hosting a dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, you can make Cherry Delight ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or preparing in advance for busy events.
Tips for the Best Cherry Delight Dessert
- Make Sure the Cream Cheese is Softened: To avoid lumps in your filling, ensure that the cream cheese is softened before you mix it with the powdered sugar. This will ensure a smooth, creamy texture for your filling.
- Chill the Crust: Chilling the graham cracker crust before adding the creamy filling helps it firm up, ensuring that the layers hold their shape once assembled.
- Use Fresh Cherries: If fresh cherries are in season, you can skip the canned cherry pie filling and use fresh cherries instead. Just pit them and slice them, or make your own cherry sauce by simmering the cherries with a bit of sugar and cornstarch.
- Customize the Topping: You can make the topping even more indulgent by adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a little crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Delight is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to make it even more special:
- Top with Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh, homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy texture to the dessert. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra flavor.
- Serve with Ice Cream: For a truly decadent treat, serve a slice of Cherry Delight alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the tart cherries and rich filling.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: If you’re serving Cherry Delight at a brunch or tea party, it pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or iced tea for a sweet, refreshing finish to the meal.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dessert, a treat to share with friends and family, or something special to bring to a party, Cherry Delight Dessert is the perfect choice. This easy-to-make, no-bake treat is a classic for a reason—it’s sweet, creamy, and bursting with flavor.
With its light, refreshing taste and beautiful layers, it’s the kind of dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So next time you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious, look no further than Cherry Delight. You’ll be the hero of your next gathering with this irresistible treat!
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