Classic Cherry Delight (Printable)
Creamy no-bake layers with sweet cherries over a crunchy graham crust
# What You’ll 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 or whipped cream
→ Cherry Topping
08 - 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
# How-To Steps:
01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Mix until evenly moistened and the mixture holds together when pressed. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish, creating an even layer.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until completely smooth and free of lumps. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until creamy and well incorporated. Gently fold in whipped topping until fully combined and no streaks remain.
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 to the edges.
04 - Spoon cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Spread gently in an even layer, taking care not to mix the cherry filling into the cream cheese beneath.
05 - Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- You can make the entire thing in under 20 minutes with zero baking required
- That perfect sweet-tart cherry flavor works year-round, not just during cherry season
02 -
- Cold cream cheese will create a lumpy filling that no amount of mixing can fix
- That minimum two-hour chill time is what transforms it from a mess into clean, restaurant-style slices
03 -
- Warm your cream cheese on the counter for two hours rather than microwaving it, which can create hot spots
- The bottom of a flat measuring cup creates the most even, compact crust layer