This Classic Cherry Delight is a no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a luscious cherry pie topping. Easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any occasion from holidays to weeknight treats.
Classic Cherry Delight Creamy, Dreamy No-Bake Dessert
There’s something timeless about Classic Cherry Delight that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet. With its buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, and glossy cherry pie topping, this dessert is pure comfort in a dish.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a festive dinner, or just craving something sweet without turning on the oven, Cherry Delight delivers every time. It’s light yet indulgent, quick to make, and always a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love Classic Cherry Delight
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No baking required: Perfect for warm days or busy schedules.
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Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and ready-made cherry pie filling.
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Perfect for gatherings: Great for potlucks, picnics, or holiday tables.
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Rich and creamy texture: Sweet, tangy cream cheese pairs beautifully with cherries.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 full crackers)
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
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8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the Topping:
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
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In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
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Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the texture resembles wet sand.
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Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to compact the crust.
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Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling (about 15 minutes).
Tip: A chilled crust holds together better when you spread the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.
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Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until creamy.
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Fold in the whipped topping gently with a spatula until fully combined and fluffy.
The filling should be smooth, light, and slightly airy — the perfect base for your cherry topping.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
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Smooth the top using a spatula to create an even layer.
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Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top and spread gently until fully covered.
This layering creates a stunning visual contrast — buttery crust, creamy middle, and ruby-red cherries on top.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
This allows the dessert to firm up and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
When ready to serve, slice into squares or rectangles and serve chilled.
Optional Garnishes
Add a finishing touch for a bakery-style presentation:
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Whipped cream swirls
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Crushed graham cracker crumbs
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Chocolate curls
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White chocolate drizzle
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Fresh mint leaves
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cherry Delight
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Soften the cream cheese fully: Cold cream cheese will create lumps.
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Fold, don’t beat: When adding whipped topping, fold gently to keep the filling airy.
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Refrigerate overnight: The texture improves and sets more firmly.
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Try different crusts: Vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies make delicious alternatives.
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Chill before slicing: This ensures clean, neat squares.
Flavor Variations
This recipe is highly versatile! Here are some delicious twists:
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Blueberry Delight: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry pie filling.
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Strawberry Delight: Use strawberry topping for a fresh, spring flavor.
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Chocolate Cherry Delight: Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache between the crust and filling.
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Lemon Cherry Delight: Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon zest into the filling for a tangy contrast.
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Oreo Cherry Delight: Replace graham crackers with crushed Oreos for a rich chocolate base.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy dessert pairs perfectly with:
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Hot coffee or espresso
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A cold glass of milk
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream
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A drizzle of chocolate syrup
For special occasions, serve in individual dessert cups or mini mason jars — they look elegant and travel easily for parties or picnics.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate: Keep covered and chilled for up to 5 days.
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Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
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Avoid leaving at room temperature for more than 2 hours — the dairy-based filling can soften quickly.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
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Calories: 310
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 18g
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Sugar: 22g
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Fiber: 1g
(Nutritional values vary depending on ingredient brands.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cherry Delight actually tastes better the next day after chilling overnight.
Q2: Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Homemade cherry filling adds a fresher, less-sweet flavor. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before spreading on top.
Q3: Can I substitute whipped topping with real whipped cream?
Yes — but stabilize it with a little powdered sugar so it doesn’t deflate.
Q4: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese creates a richer, creamier filling.
Q5: What if my crust crumbles when serving?
You may not have pressed it firmly enough or chilled it long enough. Try refrigerating for an extra 30 minutes before slicing.
Expert Baking Notes
Classic Cherry Delight has been a staple at potlucks and picnics for decades. Its simplicity and nostalgia make it one of the most loved American desserts. The contrast of textures crunchy crust, creamy filling, and fruity topping delivers satisfaction in every bite.
You can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings or halve it for smaller servings. Plus, since it’s a no-bake dessert, it’s ideal for beginner cooks or anyone avoiding oven use during hot months.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Cherry Delight isn’t just a dessert it’s a memory in the making. Its smooth cream cheese filling, sweet-tart cherries, and buttery crust create a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a quick make-ahead treat, this no-bake recipe brings a burst of color and flavor to any dessert table. Simple, elegant, and irresistibly delicious Cherry Delight is sure to become a favorite in your home.
So grab your ingredients, whip up this creamy creation, and get ready to fall in love with one of the easiest, most delightful desserts ever!
