Cherry Delight is a beloved, no-bake dessert that has graced family gatherings and potlucks for generations. With its creamy filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and luscious cherry topping, this classic treat is both simple to make and a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll delve into the detailed steps to create this dessert, explore its origins, and share tips for variations and serving suggestions.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
| Ingredient |
Quantity |
| Unsalted butter, melted |
7 tablespoons |
| Graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers) |
1 1/2 cups |
| Granulated sugar |
3 tablespoons |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient |
Quantity |
| Cream cheese, softened |
8 ounces |
| Powdered sugar |
1 cup |
| Pure vanilla extract |
1 teaspoon |
| Cool Whip |
1 container (8 ounces) |
For the Topping:
| Ingredient |
Quantity |
| Cherry pie filling |
1 can (21 ounces) |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Crush the Graham Crackers:
- Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. If you don’t have a food processor, place the crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are well coated and hold together when pressed.
- Form the Crust:
- Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to firmly pack the crust. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and smooth.
- Fold in the Cool Whip:
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip with a spatula until the mixture is light and fluffy and no streaks remain.
- Spread the Filling:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Add the Topping
- Spread the Cherry Pie Filling:
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Chill:
- Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
