Classic Cherry Delight (Printable version)

Luscious no-bake layers of creamy filling, sweet cherries, and crunchy graham crust ready in 20 minutes.

# What you 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

# How To:

01 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Mix until thoroughly blended and mixture holds together when pressed. Firmly press the crumb mixture 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 completely smooth and free of lumps. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fully incorporated and creamy. Gently fold in whipped topping using a spatula, being careful not to deflate the mixture, until uniform in consistency.
03 - Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Create a smooth, level surface, ensuring the filling reaches the edges of the dish.
04 - Spoon cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer in dollops across the surface. Gently spread the filling to create an even topping layer without disturbing the cream cheese beneath. Cover the entire surface with cherries.
05 - Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to allow all layers to set properly. The dessert is ready to serve when firm and holding its shape when cut.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The creamy cheesecake layer tastes like you spent hours, but it comes together in minutes
  • That sweet-tart cherry topping against the rich cream cheese is absolutely irresistible
02 -
  • Room temperature cream cheese is absolutely essential for a smooth layer
  • Pressing the crust firmly prevents that disappointing crumbly mess when you serve it
03 -
  • Use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press your crust into an even layer
  • Run your knife under hot water between cuts for picture-perfect slices

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