A Light, Sweet, & No-Bake Classic That Everyone Loves 🍒
Looking for an easy dessert recipe that feels fancy but comes together in minutes? Meet Cherry Delight Dessert, a no-bake, dreamy dish with layers of buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cream cheese filling, and glossy, sweet cherries on top. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just when you need a quick, delightful treat! Bonus: It only takes a few simple ingredients, and no oven is required!
| ⏳ Prep Time | 🍒 Chill Time | 🍴 Total Time | 🥄 Servings | ⭐ Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 4 hours | 4 hours 15 minutes | 9-12 (depending on slice size) | Super Easy (great for beginners) |
Why Cherry Delight Is Close to My Heart ❤️
When I think of Cherry Delight, I immediately feel nostalgic! This recipe was THE dessert my mom made during summer BBQs—and let me tell you, it was always a hit. 💕 The sweet cherry topping paired with that tangy cream cheese middle layer and crunchy golden crust? Absolute perfection.
I recently shared this dish at my daughter’s school potluck, and all the moms needed the recipe (a.k.a., no leftovers for me! 😂). It’s just one of those classic desserts that feels both indulgent and comforting—perfect for impressing guests or enjoying with your family on a lazy weekend. Plus, no need to worry about the oven during the hot summer months!
💕 Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💕
Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy cherry delight dessert! Here’s why it’s such a winner:
- No Bake = No Stress 🧁 – You don’t need an oven, making this perfect, especially during the summer.
- Quick and Simple ⏱️ – Got 15 minutes? That’s all you need to prep this cherry delight dessert for beginners.
- Crowd-Pleaser 👨👩👧👦 – From kids to picky eaters, everyone loves the light, sweet, creamy deliciousness.
- Customizable ✨ – Switch out the crust, change the topping, or make healthy swaps. It’s as flexible as you need it to be!
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the short and sweet ingredient lineup for this classic cherry delight dessert tutorial:
For the Crust:
- Graham crackers
- Butter
- Sugar
For the Creamy Filling:
- Cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Topping:
- Cherry pie filling
📝 Notes:
- Want a twist on the crust? Try crushed Oreos, vanilla wafers, or even digestive biscuits.
- Not a fan of cherries? Top with blueberry pie filling, peach slices, or fresh mixed berries instead.
- Want a healthier version? Use low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pie filling.
Substitution & Variations Table
| Ingredient | Substitution/Alternative |
|---|---|
| Graham crackers | Crushed Oreos, digestive biscuits, or shortbread |
| Cream cheese | Neufchâtel or plant-based cream cheese for dairy-free |
| Whipped topping | Freshly whipped cream or coconut whip |
| Cherry pie filling | Blueberry, raspberry, or homemade cherry compote |
🛑 Scroll down to the recipe card section below for exact measurements and step-by-step directions!
🧰 Equipment You’ll Need
Before we dive in, check your kitchen for these essential tools—they’ll make creating this easy cherry delight recipe with graham crackers a breeze!
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×9 baking dish | To layer the dessert |
| Electric mixer | For whipping the cream cheese to perfection |
| Spatula | To spread the filling evenly |
| Mixing bowls (2-3) | For combining each layer |
| Measuring cups/spoons | For precise ingredient ratios |
🍒 How to Make Cherry Delight Dessert Step-by-Step
Ready to learn how to make cherry delight dessert? Let’s break it down into simple, bite-sized steps (pun intended 😉):
1. Prepare the Crust
Combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir until the crumbs are coated and the mixture holds its shape when you press it. Spread and press this mixture into the bottom of your baking dish. Pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to set.
💡 Pro Tip: Use the back of a measuring cup to press the crust flat for a smooth base.
2. Make the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, whip softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla. Gently fold in the whipped topping until combined—but don’t overmix!
💡 Pro Tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest, creamiest texture.
3. Assemble Your Layers
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over your chilled crust. Make sure it’s smooth for a pretty presentation!
4. Add the Cherry Magic
Carefully spoon cherry pie filling (or your preferred fruit topping) over the cream cheese layer. Spread evenly.
💡 Pro Tip: Use the back of your spoon to avoid breaking the cream layer beneath.
5. Refrigerate & Relax 🕒
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—or overnight for best results.
🌟 Pro Tips for the Best Cherry Delight
- Go All In on the Chill: This dessert is best when thoroughly chilled—it allows the flavors to meld together.
- Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when folding in the whipped topping to keep the filling light and fluffy.
- Customize to Your Cravings: Play around with toppings (chocolate drizzle is heavenly!) or add a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra crunch.
🥳 Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips
Serving Ideas
- Party Perfect: Serve cherry delight in individual dessert cups for a cute, fancy presentation.
- Add a Drizzle: Top with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Go Crunchy: Sprinkle crushed nuts or cookie crumbs for extra texture!
Storage Tips
- In the Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container (or cover the pan) and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- In the Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight.
💡 Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dessert a day before serving—it tastes even better with time!
Cherry Delight Dessert Recipe
Equipment
- 9×9 baking dish
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls (2-3)
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups Graham crackers crushed
- ½ cup Butter melted
- ¼ cup Sugar
For the Creamy Filling:
- 8 oz Cream cheese softened
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 cup Whipped topping like Cool Whip
For the Topping:
- 1 can 21 oz Cherry pie filling
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir until evenly mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9 baking dish. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
Make the Creamy Filling
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping until just incorporated.
Assemble the Layers
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Add the Cherry Topping
- Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
Chill and Serve
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve.
Video
Notes
For a healthier option, consider using low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free whipped topping.
This dessert can be prepared a day in advance, making it a great option for gatherings!
🥗 Nutrition Breakdown
| Serving Size | 1 slice (based on 12 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Sugar | 21g |
| Protein | 3g |
Note: Nutritional content will vary based on ingredient substitutions.
🍰 Wanna Try More No-Bake Recipes?
If you loved this no-bake cherry delight dessert recipe, you might also enjoy:
- No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake 🍇
- Strawberry Icebox Cake 🍓
- Chocolate Lasagna 🍫
💬 Leave Your Thoughts Below!
Have you tried this recipe? I’d LOVE to hear from you! Leave a comment below sharing your favorite twist or topping ideas.
📌 Save & Share This Recipe
Don’t forget to Pin this Easy Cherry Delight Dessert with Graham Crackers to your Pinterest board—it’s too good not to save!
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🌟 FAQ Section
Q: Can I make cherry delight ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can even make it a day before—just let it chill in the fridge for the best texture.
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
A: Yes! Whip heavy cream with a little sugar, but make sure it’s stiff enough to hold.
Q: Can I switch the topping?
A: Totally! Blueberries, strawberries, or even caramel work beautifully.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yup! Sub gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Q: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
A: Of course—go wild with your creativity! Nuts and choco chips add great texture.
There you have it—a delightful, no-bake cherry dessert that is sure to become your family’s new favorite. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. What more could we want? So go ahead: whip it up, take a pic, and share it with me on Pinterest or in the comments below!
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