Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (from about 10 full graham cracker sheets)
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar (slightly less than 1/4 cup recommended)
Filling
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
- 3/4 cup confectioners' sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling (or other favorite pie filling)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix thoroughly, then firmly press the mixture with your fingers into the bottom of a 9x9-inch pan or a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even and compact layer.
- Make the cream cheese filling: Using a stand mixer or hand-held electric mixer, whip the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add in the Cool Whip, confectioners' sugar, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the filling is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an even layer.
- Add the cherry topping: Pour the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Spread it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill the dessert: Refrigerate the assembled Cherry Delight for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for best results, to allow it to firm up and meld the flavors.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, cut the dessert into squares and serve chilled for a deliciously refreshing treat.
Notes
- For best results, chill the dessert overnight to allow the layers to set fully.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry for variation.
- Using slightly less sugar in the crust keeps it from being overly sweet, balancing the dessert flavors.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth filling texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
