Classic Cherry Delight – Full Detailed Recipe

 

Classic Cherry Delight is an easy, nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you want a sweet treat that looks impressive with almost no effort. It features a buttery graham cracker crust, a fluffy cream cheese layer, and a bright, fruity cherry topping. Best of all? It’s a no-bake dessert (with an optional baked crust) that comes together quickly and chills beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
  or 1 cup homemade whipped cream

For the Topping

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• Optional: fresh cherries for garnish

Instructions (Long, Detailed Version)

1. Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt.
2. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. For no-bake version: Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
5. For firmer crust: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then let cool completely.
   Pressing the crust firmly is the secret to a clean slice later.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract; beat until fully combined.
3. Fold in the Cool Whip gently using a spatula to keep the filling light and fluffy.
   Do not overmix — you want that classic mousse-like texture.

3. Assemble the Dessert

1. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
2. Spoon the cherry pie filling on top and spread gently.
3. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
   Chilling ensures the layers firm up and the flavors meld.

4. Serve

Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Add fresh cherries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Tips for the Best Cherry Delight

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Chill overnight for the cleanest slices.
• If the crust is too crumbly, add an extra tablespoon of melted butter.
• For a lighter filling, fold in half Cool Whip + half homemade whipped cream.

Variations

Lemon Cherry Delight

Add 2 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tsp lemon zest to the cream cheese layer.

Chocolate Cherry Delight

Add a thin layer of melted chocolate or chocolate pudding under the cherries.

Berry Delight

Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, raspberry, or strawberry.

Almond-Cherry Version

Add ½ tsp almond extract to the filling — pairs perfectly with cherries!

Storage

• Fridge: up to 4 days (covered).
• Freezer: freeze up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.