Classic Cherry Delight (Printable Version)

Luscious no-bake dessert featuring sweet cherries, creamy layers, and crunchy graham cracker crust—perfect for any occasion.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Cream Cheese Layer

04 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup powdered sugar
06 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
07 - 1 1/2 cups whipped topping

→ Cherry Topping

08 - 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

# Directions:

01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are evenly distributed. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish, creating an even layer across the entire base.
02 - Beat softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until smooth and lump-free. Incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy. Gently fold in whipped topping using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
03 - Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust, creating a smooth layer. Spoon cherry pie filling on top and spread gently to cover the entire surface without disturbing the cream cheese layer beneath.
04 - Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow all layers to set properly and flavors to meld. The dessert should be firm to the touch before serving.
05 - Remove from refrigerator just before serving. Cut into squares and serve chilled. For clean cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The satisfaction comes from how something this impressive looking requires zero actual cooking skills
  • You can assemble it in under 20 minutes and let the refrigerator do all the hard work
02 -
  • Trying to cut this before it is fully chilled will give you a sad messy situation instead of clean slices
  • A hot knife dipped in water between cuts is the secret to getting picture perfect portions
03 -
  • Chill your mixing bowl before making the cream cheese layer for even better stability
  • Use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press the crust into an even layer without compacting it too tightly