Indulge in the simplicity and deliciousness of this Cherry Cream Cheese Delight, a no-bake dessert that combines the crunchy texture of a graham cracker crust with the creamy richness of a cream cheese filling, all topped with a luscious cherry pie filling. This dessert is perfect for those who love sweet treats but prefer to avoid the oven.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- Unsalted Butter: 7 tablespoons, melted
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 1/2 cups (from about 9 whole crackers)
- Granulated Sugar: 3 tablespoons
For the Filling:
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened
- Powdered Sugar: 1 cup
- Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Cool Whip: 8 ounces (1 container)
- Cherry Pie Filling: 21 ounces (1 can)
Instructions:
Preparing the Crust:
- Start by melting the butter in a medium-sized bowl. This can be done in a microwave, heating for about 30 seconds or until the butter is completely melted.
- Stir in the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar until well mixed.
- Transfer this mixture to an 8 x 8 baking dish that has been lightly sprayed or greased. Press down the mixture firmly to create an even base. Set this aside.
Creating the Filling:
- In a larger bowl, add the softened cream cheese. Use a mixer to blend it until the texture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to blend well.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip, mixing just enough to integrate it with the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix.
- Spread this creamy mixture over the prepared crust, using a spoon or an offset spatula for an even layer.
Layering the Cherry Topping:
- Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, aiming for a uniform spread across the surface.
Chilling the Dessert:
- Once assembled, place the baking dish in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the dessert to set properly and the flavors to meld together.
This Cherry Cream Cheese Delight is a fantastic dessert option for gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet treat at the end of a meal. Its no-bake nature makes it a convenient choice, especially during warmer months when you want to avoid using the oven. The combination of the buttery crust, creamy filling, and tart cherry topping creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors that is sure to please any palate. Enjoy this easy-to-make, irresistibly delicious dessert!