why make this recipe
Cherry Delights are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They combine the sweetness of cherries with a creamy filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust. This recipe is simple to make and is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it doesn’t require baking, making it a great choice for warm days or when you’re short on time.
how to make Cherry Delights
Ingredients:
- 7 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 8 ounces of softened cream cheese
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 8 ounces of Cool Whip
- 21 ounces of cherry pie filling
Directions:
Step 1: Crust Creation
Melt the butter in a medium bowl, about 30 seconds in the microwave. Combine the melted butter with the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8×8 baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Luscious Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until everything is combined.
Step 3: The Grand Assembly
Spread the creamy mixture over the graham cracker base. Top with the cherry pie filling to create a lovely finish.
Step 4: Chill & Thrill
Refrigerate your Cherry Delights for at least 2 hours. If you have leftovers, make sure to store them in the fridge.
how to serve Cherry Delights
Cherry Delights are best served chilled. Cut them into squares and serve on a plate. They make a great dessert for parties, potlucks, or any family gathering. You can also add some fresh cherries on top for extra decoration.
how to store Cherry Delights
To keep your Cherry Delights fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for up to 4 days. Make sure to cover them well to prevent them from drying out.
tips to make Cherry Delights
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened; this will help it mix more smoothly.
- If you want more flavor, you can add a little lemon juice to the filling.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps everything set nicely.
- For a fun twist, try using a different fruit pie filling, like blueberry or strawberry.
variation
For a twist on this classic recipe, you can swap the cherry pie filling for other pie fillings like strawberry, blueberry, or mixed berries. You can also add chopped nuts or coconut to the crust for added texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Cherry Delights ahead of time?
A: Yes! They are perfect for making a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you are ready to serve.
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
A: Yes, you can top them with fresh cherries. Just make sure to add some sugar to sweeten them if they are not very ripe.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.