A Simple & Sweet Family Favorite
This Cherry Delight is a no-fuss, creamy dessert that layers a golden graham cracker crust with a smooth cream cheese topping and rich cherry pie filling. Chilled overnight for the perfect set—it’s everything you need for a holiday classic or anytime treat.
A nostalgic favorite passed down through generations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍫 No-Bake Option: Optional Cool Whip makes it even easier!
- 🥣 Creamy Comfort: The cream cheese layer adds richness without being heavy.
- 🍒 Fruit-Filled Finish: Cherry pie filling gives bold flavor and syrupy texture we all love.
- ⏱️ Quick Assembly: Just mix, press, chill, and slice—no complicated steps.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at Thanksgiving, church suppers, or family dinners.
Ingredients (Serves 12–15):
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 1 sleeve or 16 squares crushed)
- ½ cup (1 stick) melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese , softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar , sifted
- 1 tsp milk (adjust if needed – helps reach spreadable consistency)
For the Top Layer:
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz – any style you prefer)
- 8 oz Cool Whip or Dream Whip , thawed (optional – for extra fluffiness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) .
In a bowl, mix:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Melted butter
Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or 9-inch pie plate .
Bake for 5 minutes until lightly golden.
Let cool completely before adding the next layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, beat:
- Softened cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Milk (a teaspoon at a time)
until smooth, light, and spreadable—like frosting.
Tip: If the mixture feels too thick, add another tsp of milk to loosen it up.
Step 3: Spread the Cream Cheese Layer
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Smooth out the top so the cherry filling has an even base to rest on.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Pie Filling
Top with the cherry pie filling , spreading gently to cover the cream cheese layer.
If using Cool Whip , gently spread it over the cherry layer before chilling.
Step 5: Chill Overnight
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours , but overnight is best for full flavor development and firmness.
The longer it chills, the cleaner the slices and richer the taste.
Step 6: Slice & Serve Cold
Once chilled, cut into bars or squares and serve cold.
Perfect as-is or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese: Prevents lumps and ensures smooth texture.
- 🍒 Drain Excess Juice (Optional): For a firmer texture, drain some juice from the pie filling.
- 🥣 Make Ahead Magic: Prep this the night before and bring straight from fridge to table.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Freeze individual pieces for future treats—thaw in fridge before serving.
- 🧁 Add Chocolate Drizzle: For extra flair, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
- Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday supper.
- Great in lunchboxes, school snacks, or dessert trays.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 12 servings – without Cool Whip):
(Approximate values – based on regular ingredients)
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~15g
With Cool Whip added, expect an additional 40–60 kcal per serving .
Grandma’s Cherry Delight is proof that the best desserts are the ones made with love and tradition. With its crunchy crust, creamy center, and sweet-tart cherry topping—it’s a simple yet unforgettable treat that brings back childhood memories with every bite.
So go ahead and make this today… because once you try it—you’ll be making it year-round!
