Classic Cherry Delight (Printable Version)

Luscious no-bake layers of sweet cherries and cream over crunchy graham crust

# What You Need:

→ Crust

01 - 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Cream Cheese Layer

04 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup powdered sugar
06 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
07 - 1 1/2 cups whipped topping

→ Cherry Topping

08 - 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

# How To Make It:

01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Mix until evenly moistened and crumbly. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish, creating an even layer.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; continue mixing until fully incorporated and no lumps remain. Gently fold in whipped topping until the mixture is light and uniform.
03 - Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust using an offset spatula or back of a spoon, ensuring complete coverage.
04 - Spoon cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Spread gently with a spatula to distribute cherries evenly without disturbing the cream cheese layer beneath.
05 - Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the dessert is fully set and firm to the touch. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • No oven required means your kitchen stays cool even when temperatures soar outside
  • The make ahead nature lets you actually enjoy your own party instead of being stuck in the kitchen
  • That perfect contrast between crunchy crust, silky cream, and juicy cherries hits every craving at once
02 -
  • Cold cream cheese will create lumps that no amount of mixing can fix, so plan ahead and set it out early
  • Letting the dessert chill completely is the difference between messy servings and those picture perfect squares
  • The crust needs to be pressed firmly enough to hold together when sliced, but not so hard that it becomes tough
03 -
  • Run your knife under hot water and wipe dry between cuts for the cleanest, most professional looking squares
  • A splash of almond extract in the cream cheese layer creates an incredible cherry amaretto flavor upgrade

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