Classic Cherry Delight

Introduction

When it comes to desserts that bring joy and nostalgia, few can compete with the Classic Cherry Delight. This delightful treat has been a staple at family gatherings and holiday celebrations in our household for as long as I can remember. I first tasted it at a potluck dinner, and I was instantly captivated by its creamy filling, sweet cherry topping, and buttery graham cracker crust. Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. After making it for my own family, they couldn’t get enough of it! It’s simple to prepare and requires no baking, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 whole crackers)
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 container Cool Whip (8 ounces)
• 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces)

Instructions

1. Make the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, add the melted butter.
• Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar until well combined.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a sprayed 8 x 8-inch baking dish to form the crust. Set aside.

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth and free of lumps.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined.
• Gently fold in the Cool Whip until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

1. Assemble the Dessert:

• Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust using a spoon or an offset spatula.
• Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the top, spreading it evenly without disturbing the filling underneath.

1. Chill the Dessert:

• Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. For best results, leave it in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

1. Serve:

• Once chilled, slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful layers of flavor and texture!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 9
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (or overnight)

How to Serve

• Serve chilled, garnished with additional whipped cream for a luxurious touch.
• Pair with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer alongside coffee or tea for a perfect dessert experience.
• Cut into smaller squares for bite-sized treats at gatherings.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent option.

Additional Tips

1. Cream Cheese Temperature: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
2. Mix Gently: When folding in the Cool Whip, mix gently to maintain the light, airy texture.
3. Graham Cracker Variety: Consider using flavored graham crackers, like cinnamon or chocolate, for a unique twist on the crust.
4. Maraschino Cherries: For a decorative touch, add some maraschino cherries on top of the cherry pie filling before serving.
5. Chill Thoroughly: Allow the dessert to chill for at least 2 hours to ensure it sets properly for easier slicing.

Recipe Variations

• Mixed Berry Delight: Substitute the cherry pie filling with a mixture of blueberries and raspberries for a berry delight.
• Chocolate Cherry Delight: Add chocolate pudding mix to the cream cheese filling for a richer flavor and layer with chocolate pie filling.
• Nutty Crust: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the graham cracker crust for added crunch.
• Coconut Cherry Delight: Mix in shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
• Lemon Cherry Delight: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the filling for a bright and zesty flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve at holiday gatherings, family reunions, or potluck dinners for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
• Include as part of a dessert table alongside other classic desserts like brownies, cookies, and pies.
• Present as a dessert for summer barbecues, bringing a refreshing touch to warm-weather meals.
• Offer at birthday parties or special occasions, where it can easily be cut into squares for sharing.
• Package in decorative containers for gift-giving or sharing with friends and neighbors.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep any leftover cherry delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: This dessert can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Thawing: To enjoy frozen dessert, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different fruit filling?

• Yes, you can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or peach.

1. What if I don’t have Cool Whip?

• You can make homemade whipped cream as a substitute by whipping heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form.

1. Can I make this dessert in advance?

• Absolutely! This dessert is great for making ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

1. How do I know when the filling is mixed properly?

• The filling should be smooth and creamy, without any lumps of cream cheese.

1. Can I use light cream cheese or Cool Whip?

• Yes, you can use reduced-fat options, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

1. What size pan should I use?

• An 8 x 8-inch or 9 x 9-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.

1. How do I cut the squares neatly?

• Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat squares.

1. What can I do with leftovers?

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy them as a sweet treat the next day!

1. Is this dessert suitable for potlucks?

• Yes! It’s easy to transport and serves a crowd well.

1. How long can I store the leftovers?

• The dessert can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Classic Cherry Delight is more than just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic dish that evokes fond memories and family gatherings. With its creamy filling, buttery crust, and sweet cherry topping, this treat is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Easy to make and even easier to love, it’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any special occasion. So gather your ingredients, whip up this delightful dessert, and enjoy the smiles it brings to your family and friends! Indulge in this sweet classic and make it a part of your dessert repertoire for years to come.

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