🍒 Classic Cherry Delight (No-Bake Dessert)
🍽️ Servings: 9–12
⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes
❄️ Chill Time: At least 4 hours (or overnight)
🧂 Ingredients:
Crust:
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1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
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⅓ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or 1 cup whipped cream
Topping:
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (use quality brand for best flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
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In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
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Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch pan (thinner crust in larger pan).
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Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Filling:
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In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
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Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until creamy.
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Fold in whipped topping gently until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Layers:
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
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Spoon cherry pie filling over the top and spread gently to cover.
4. Chill:
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until set and firm.
🍽️ To Serve:
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Slice and serve chilled.
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Optional: garnish with shaved white chocolate, almond slivers, or a dollop of whipped cream.
🔄 Variations:
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Low-sugar: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free cherry pie filling.
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Crunchier crust: Toast the crust in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, then cool before adding filling.
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Other toppings: Try blueberry, strawberry, or peach pie filling instead of cherry.
Would you like a mini jar version, a freezer-friendly option, or a chocolate twist?