Cherry Delight Recipe With Graham Cracker Crust

This Cherry Delight recipe is an easy no-bake dessert with a graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and sweet cherry topping. A simple treat everyone will love!

Cherry Delight is a classic, old-fashioned dessert that brings back memories of simpler times…and for me, that’s always a good thing. With its buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and sweet cherry topping, it’s the kind of recipe that has been passed down through generations. Chances are this recipe has resided in your own recipe box for decades. This is my version.

While the filling requires no baking, the crust does need a short time in the oven to help it set properly, just like the way it was made years ago. Once that step is done, the rest comes together effortlessly. Whether using homemade cherry pie filling or a convenient canned version, this nostalgic dessert is sure to be a favorite for family gatherings or a special treat anytime.

Homemade or Canned Cherry Pie Filling?

When it comes to the topping, the choice between canned or homemade cherry pie filling is entirely personal. Both options are delicious, and the dessert will turn out beautifully either way. If time allows, making a homemade filling adds a special touch, but a good-quality canned version is just as satisfying. The most important thing is that it’s a dessert meant to be enjoyed, no matter which option you choose.

3 Easy Steps

THE CRUST:

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Crush the graham crackers using a small food processor, or by placing them in a resealable plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
• In a medium bowl, melt the butter in the microwave.
• To the butter, add the graham crackers crumbs and sugar.
• Stir to combine.
• Place the mixture in an 8×8 inch baking dish that has been sprayed with non-stick spray.
• Pat the crumbs evenly to the sides of the pan. Use a firm hand, but do not press too hard.
• Bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely.

THE FILLING:

• In the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer) beat the cream cheese until fluffy.
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix until all ingredients are incorporated.
• Gently fold in the whole container of Cool Whip by hand.
• Add the filling on top of the graham cracker crust. Smooth evenly to the sides.

THE TOPPING:

• Add the cherry pie filling to the top of the cream cheese layer. Spread to the sides.
• Cover loosely with foil. Refrigerate at least 4 hours.
• Serve with a dollop of canned whipped topping.

Helpful Tips + Variations

• If your crust sticks to the pan, it’s likely due to too much butter. I learned this the hard way once when I decided to use a whole stick, thinking more butter would be better! Unfortunately, it had the opposite effect. Too much melted butter causes the crust to harden as it chills, making it nearly impossible to cut and serve. For the best texture, stick to the recommended amount…just enough to hold the graham cracker crumbs together without making it too firm.
• Once you get the first piece out, the remaining pieces cut very nicely. If, by chance, you have trouble getting clean slices, just serve each piece in a pretty bowl. The edges are hidden, and it still tastes just as good. Add a dollop of canned whipped topping, a sprinkling of nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar on the top of each piece before serving.
• I have used both regular Cool Whip and reduced fat Cool Whip. I can’t tell the difference in taste at all.
• This cheesecake dessert can be adapted to feature literally any kind of fruit. Any flavor of pie filling can be substituted for the cherry variety. Fresh fruit, such as fresh strawberries or fresh blueberries, would also be delicious.
• This is the perfect recipe for the Christmas holidays. It’s festive red color, along with a garnish of fresh mint, makes it a beautiful addition to any holiday table. Serve it in a glass dish or individual dessert cups for an extra special presentation.
• You can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract for the vanilla extract.

Cherry Delight is a timeless dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. The smooth cream cheese mixture, paired with a buttery graham cracker crust, creates the perfect base for the sweet topping. Whether using a homemade version or a can of cherry pie filling, this dessert is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it chilled, and watch it disappear!