Classic Cherry Delight is a timeless no-bake dessert that layers a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, sweetened filling and is topped with vibrant cherry pie filling. This dessert is a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holidays. It is easy to prepare and always a crowd favorite. Its light texture and balanced sweetness make it a refreshing option after a hearty meal.
This dessert is sometimes referred to as Cherry Delight Cake or Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert. It is not a cake in the traditional sense but more of a layered dessert that is chilled and served cold. It is ideal for those who enjoy desserts that do not require baking but still offer rich flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
The recipe is divided into three layers
For the crust
- 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 1 half cup of unsalted butter melted
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
For the filling
- 8 ounces of cream cheese softened
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 1 container of whipped topping approximately 8 ounces or homemade whipped cream
For the topping
- 1 can of cherry pie filling approximately 21 ounces
Equipment Needed
- 9 by 13 inch glass baking dish or similar
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or aluminum foil for chilling
Instructions
Step One Prepare the Crust
Begin by combining the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar in a medium bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and is evenly coated. Pour the crumb mixture into a 9 by 13 inch dish. Using the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands press the crumbs evenly and firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a compact crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling. Chilling the crust helps it hold together when serving.
Step Two Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large mixing bowl beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract then continue beating until well combined and fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped topping with a spatula until no streaks remain. The filling should be smooth and airy. Remove the crust from the refrigerator and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over it using a spatula to create a smooth layer.
Step Three Add the Cherry Topping
Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer spreading it out gently with a spoon so that it covers the top evenly. Take care not to press too hard as you want to maintain the separation of layers. Once topped cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours. Chilling overnight yields the best results as it allows the flavors to meld and the layers to firm.
Step Four Serve
Once fully chilled remove the dessert from the refrigerator. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares wiping the knife between cuts for clean slices. Serve cold and store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
Tips for Success
- Be sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese will not blend smoothly and may result in lumps
- If using homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping make sure it is stiffly whipped to maintain the structure of the filling
- Chill the dessert for the full recommended time before serving to ensure the layers are set
- For added texture sprinkle crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts over the cherry topping just before serving
- Use a clear glass baking dish to showcase the beautiful layers especially if serving for guests
Variations
This recipe is highly versatile and can be adjusted according to personal taste or dietary requirements
Crust Variations
- Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a slightly different flavor
- Substitute chocolate cookie crumbs for a richer and more decadent base
- Add finely chopped pecans or almonds to the crust for added crunch
Filling Variations
- Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest to the cream cheese mixture for a hint of citrus
- Mix in a layer of fruit preserves or fresh fruit between the cream cheese layer and cherry topping
- Substitute half the whipped topping with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein
Topping Variations
- Use blueberry or strawberry pie filling instead of cherry
- Make a homemade fruit topping with fresh berries sugar and cornstarch
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or sprinkle of shredded coconut over the top for a unique twist
Storage Instructions
Classic Cherry Delight stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Avoid freezing the dessert as the texture of the cream cheese and whipped topping may change upon thawing and become watery.
If you wish to prepare the dessert ahead of time you can assemble the crust and filling up to two days in advance. Add the cherry topping just before serving for best presentation.
History and Background
Cherry Delight likely originated in mid twentieth century American kitchens as a no bake dessert that became popular through community cookbooks and brand promotional recipes. Dishes like these gained traction due to the increasing availability of convenience products like canned pie filling and whipped topping. These ingredients allowed home cooks to prepare crowd pleasing desserts without extensive time in the kitchen.
Its popularity has endured thanks to its simplicity versatility and nostalgic appeal. It is especially common during summer months when oven use is minimized and lighter desserts are favored. Its use of canned fruit also makes it a staple for winter and holiday celebrations when fresh fruit is less available.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional content of this dessert will vary based on ingredients used and portion size. A standard square serving typically includes between 250 and 400 calories depending on whether full fat or reduced fat cream cheese and whipped topping are used. The dessert is high in carbohydrates primarily from the crust and cherry topping. Fat content comes from the butter and cream cheese while protein content remains modest.
To lighten the recipe consider using low fat cream cheese reduced sugar pie filling and homemade whipped cream made from coconut milk or Greek yogurt. However altering these ingredients may slightly change the flavor and texture of the original recipe.
Serving Ideas
Classic Cherry Delight can be served in many ways depending on occasion and presentation preference
- For a formal dinner party serve individual portions in parfait glasses with layers of crust filling and cherry topping repeated
- For potlucks or family events keep it in the sheet pan and serve in squares
- Pair with a light sparkling beverage coffee or tea
- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream a mint leaf or a few fresh cherries if desired
This dessert also pairs well with other light and creamy options such as lemon bars mousse or panna cotta. It is a good follow up to a heavy main course since it is sweet but not overly rich.
Conclusion
Classic Cherry Delight remains a beloved dessert across generations due to its simplicity eye catching presentation and satisfying balance of flavors. It requires no baking limited preparation time and only a few basic ingredients yet the results are consistently enjoyable. Whether you are preparing it for a family gathering summer picnic or casual weekday treat this recipe offers a reliable and crowd pleasing option that requires little effort for a big reward.
The adaptability of this dessert allows for creativity in both flavor and presentation making it suitable for all seasons and many dietary preferences. Once you try it you are likely to return to this recipe time and again for its ease and universal appeal.