Classic Cherry Delight

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about a pan of Classic Cherry Delight.

With its buttery graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, and sweet cherry pie topping, this no-bake dessert is a go-to for potlucks, holidays, and everyday cravings.

It’s easy to assemble, requires no baking, and can be made ahead—making it a favorite in busy kitchens.

 Ingredients

For the crust:

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 9 full-size crackers)

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed

For the topping:

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Optional garnish:

• Fresh cherries

• Graham cracker crumbs

• Whipped cream swirls

 Directions

1. Prepare the crust

Place the butter in a medium-sized bowl and microwave for 30 seconds or until melted. Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir everything together until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

Spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish to form an even crust. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to make it flat and compact. Set the pan aside while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended.

Next, fold in the thawed Cool Whip using a spatula. Mix gently just until the cream cheese and whipped topping are combined. Do not overmix—you want the filling to stay fluffy and light.

3. Assemble the dessert

Spread the cream cheese filling over the crust, smoothing the surface with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Make sure the layer is even and reaches the edges.

Open the can of cherry pie filling and spoon it carefully over the cream cheese layer. Use a clean spatula to spread the cherries evenly across the top.

4. Chill and serve

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the layers to set completely.

When ready to serve, slice into squares and use a pie server to lift out pieces cleanly. Garnish with fresh cherries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs if desired.

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

 Tips & Variations

• Crust options: Use crushed shortbread cookies, vanilla wafers, or digestive biscuits in place of graham crackers.

• Low-sugar version: Use sugar-free pudding or light whipped topping to reduce the sugar content for a healthier dessert version.

• Fruit topping swaps: Replace cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or lemon curd for a twist.

• Mini version: Assemble in small jars or cups for individual portions—perfect for parties or lunchboxes.

• Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top for texture.

 Storage

• Keep the cherry delight refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• For best results, don’t freeze the assembled dessert, as the filling can change texture once thawed.

• If preparing ahead, assemble up to 24 hours before serving for optimal freshness.

 Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Chill Time: 2–8 hours

• Total Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes

• Yield: 9 servings (larger squares) or 12 smaller portions

 Tools Used

• 8×8-inch baking dish

• Medium and large mixing bowls

• Electric mixer

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Rubber spatula

• Offset spatula (optional)

• Plastic wrap or airtight lid for storage

Final Thoughts on Classic Cherry Delight

This Classic Cherry Delight is a simple, timeless dessert that never goes out of style. It’s cool, creamy, and sweet with just the right amount of tart cherry flavor on top.

Best of all, it’s a no-fail recipe that comes together with a few pantry staples and no oven required.