Simple No-Bake Cherry Delight: A Creamy, Sweet Treat

If you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make, this Simple No-Bake Cherry Delight is exactly what you need! With a creamy, velvety filling, a sweet cherry topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is as beautiful as it is tasty. Perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or just whenever you want something indulgent without turning on the oven, this no-bake cherry treat is a sure winner. Let’s get started on making this mouthwatering dessert!

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (whipped to stiff peaks)

For the Cherry Topping:

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling or fresh cherries in syrup

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Stir in the melted butter until everything is well-coated and the mixture is crumbly.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
4. Place the dish in the refrigerator while you prepare the cream cheese filling to allow the crust to set.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until fully combined and smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well incorporated and fluffy.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Topping

1. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
2. If you’re using fresh cherries, you can drizzle the syrup over the top to create a similar effect.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.
2. Once set, slice the dessert into squares and serve chilled.

Tips for the Best Cherry Delight:

• You can switch up the fruit topping and use other canned or fresh fruits like strawberries, peaches, or blueberries to make it your own.
• If you prefer a thicker crust, simply press the graham cracker mixture more firmly or add a few extra graham cracker crumbs.
• To give the filling more flavor, add a little zest of lemon or orange to the cream cheese filling for an extra citrus kick.
• For an added crunch, sprinkle some crushed nuts or more graham cracker crumbs over the top before serving.

Conclusion:

This Simple No-Bake Cherry Delight is the perfect dessert for when you want something sweet, creamy, and effortless to make. With its smooth, creamy filling, sweet cherry topping, and crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s a treat that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a potluck, or just a special treat at home, this dessert will always be a hit. Try this easy no-bake recipe and indulge in a cherry-topped delight today!