If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the goodness of cream with the delicious sweetness of cherries, look no further than Classic Cherry Delight. This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a family gathering or just craving a delicious treat, this dessert is sure to impress. With its buttery crust, luscious cream cheese filling and burst of flavor from the cherry pie filling, Classic Cherry Delight is an irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Filling:
- 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
Start by adding the butter to a medium bowl. Microwave it for 30 seconds or until melted.
Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar to the melted butter. Mix well to combine, ensuring that the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter-sugar mixture.
Pat the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the sprayed 8 x 8 baking dish, forming the crust. Set it aside.
In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Use a mixer to beat the cream cheese until it becomes smooth and free of any lumps.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Gently fold in the cool whip, being careful not to overmix. You want the cool whip and cream cheese to be combined while maintaining a light and fluffy texture.
Spread the filling evenly over the graham cracker crust, using a spoon or offset spatula to create a smooth layer.
Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cream cheese filling. Carefully spread it evenly, ensuring every bite gets a taste of the delicious cherry topping.
Place the dessert in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours before serving. For best results and a more intense flavor, leaving it overnight is recommended.
Once chilled, cut into squares and serve. Classic Cherry Delight can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
To make the dessert even more visually appealing, you can garnish each slice with a fresh cherry or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.
For a quick and easy variation, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust instead of making your own. This will save you some time while still delivering a delicious dessert.
If you prefer a lighter version of Classic Cherry Delight, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.