Grandma’s Cherry Delight is a timeless no-bake dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a vibrant cherry pie topping, this dessert is a classic crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings, it’s a nostalgic treat that’s as delightful as its name suggests.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped (or 8 oz whipped topping)
For the Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Dessert:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
- Top with the cherry pie filling, spreading it out evenly.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Chill Time
4 hours
Total Time
4 hours 20 minutes
Nutrition (per serving, approx. 12 servings)
Calories: ~280
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 150mg
Expert Tips
- For a thicker crust, increase graham cracker crumbs to 2 ½ cups.
- Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or peach for a fruity variation.
- Use homemade whipped cream for an extra creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert can be made up to 2 days in advance.
What if I don’t have graham crackers?
Substitute with digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer crumbs.
Can I freeze it?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Storing & Reheating
Storing: Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
Reheating: This dessert is served chilled, so no reheating is needed.
Substitutions & Variations
- For a tangier filling, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
- Use chocolate graham crackers for a rich twist.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or coconut on top for extra texture and flavor.
Grandma’s Cherry Delight Dessert Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- **1. Prepare the Crust:**
- - In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
- - Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
- **2. Make the Filling:**
- - In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- - Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- - Gently fold in the whipped cream or whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
- **3. Assemble the Dessert:**
- - Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
- - Top with the cherry pie filling, spreading it out evenly.
- **4. Chill and Serve:**
- - Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- - Slice into squares and serve chilled.
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