Best Classic Cherry Delight: Irresistible No-Bake Dessert

Recipe By:
Emily Harrison
Updated:

There’s something utterly enchanting about the Best Classic Cherry Delight, a no-bake dessert with creamy layers and sweet cherries that can make anyone smile. Imagine sinking your fork into a fluffy cloud of whipped cream, graham cracker crust, and luscious cherry filling, all harmonizing in your mouth like a well-rehearsed symphony of flavors.

Every bite of this delightful treat brings back memories of family gatherings, where laughter fills the air and cherry delight is the star of the show. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, this dessert never fails to impress. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This no-bake dessert is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion
  • The combination of creamy layers and sweet cherries creates a deliciously nostalgic flavor profile
  • Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, this dessert will be the highlight of your table
  • It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings!

I remember the first time I made this Cherry Delight; my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a slice!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Choose plain or honey-flavored for a touch of sweetness in the crust.

  • Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together; make sure it’s fully melted for best results.

  • Cream Cheese: Soften it at room temperature for smooth mixing; choose full-fat for rich flavor.

  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer; sift if clumpy for a silky texture.

  • Whipped Topping: Use store-bought or homemade whipped cream for that airy texture everyone loves.

  • Cherry Pie Filling: Opt for high-quality filling packed with plump cherries to add that irresistible fruity touch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Create the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until they resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish to form an even layer.

Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until well combined. Fold in half of the whipped topping gently until everything is perfectly blended.

Add Creamy Layer to Crust: Pour the creamy mixture over your prepared crust evenly. Smooth out with a spatula until it fills every nook and cranny. This layer should look as inviting as the sunset!

Top with Cherry Filling: Spoon cherry pie filling generously over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly across the surface. Each dollop should make you salivate in anticipation of that sweet burst of flavor.

Chill Before Serving: Cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight if you can resist! This helps all those flavors meld beautifully together.

With these steps completed, you’re just moments away from serving up pure bliss!

Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or celebrating a special occasion, this no-bake cherry delight will undoubtedly steal hearts (and stomachs) everywhere. Enjoy every creamy layer and sweet bite as you revel in its deliciousness!

You Must Know

  • The Best Classic Cherry Delight is perfect for summer gatherings, featuring luscious layers of creaminess and sweet cherries
  • Its no-bake nature makes it a breeze to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy the sunshine

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Prepare the crust first, then layer the creamy filling and cherries while it sets. This method ensures that each layer complements the other perfectly.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cherries for other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a fresh twist. You can also experiment with flavored creams for added fun.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. No need to reheat; serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing; this prevents lumps and creates a silky texture
  • Use fresh cherries for a burst of flavor, but frozen ones work fine too if fresh aren’t available
  • Make sure to let it chill properly for best results

Sharing this dessert with friends at our backyard BBQ brought smiles and happy memories. Their delighted faces made all the effort worthwhile, and we couldn’t stop talking about how delicious it was!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for cherries in this dessert?

You can use strawberries, raspberries, or even peaches for delightful variations.

How long does the Best Classic Cherry Delight last?

This dessert stays fresh in the fridge for about five days when stored properly.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for making a day in advance to save time on serving day.

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Best Classic Cherry Delight

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Indulge in the Best Classic Cherry Delight, a delightful no-bake dessert that combines creamy layers with sweet cherries, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious cream cheese filling topped with vibrant cherry pie filling, this dessert is sure to impress at summer barbecues or festive gatherings. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s a nostalgic classic that everyone will love!

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 9

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups whipped topping
  • 2 cups cherry pie filling (high-quality)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into an 8×8-inch baking dish to form the crust.
  2. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Fold in half of the whipped topping until blended.
  3. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.
  4. Spoon cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight before serving.
  • Author: Emily Harrison
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (160g)
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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