Cherry Delight is a classic American dessert known for its rich, creamy layers and bright cherry topping. It features a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese filling, crunchy pecans for texture, and a luscious cherry pie filling on top. This no-fuss dessert has been a family favorite for decades, especially popular at potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings. Its make-ahead nature makes it convenient, and the combination of creamy, crunchy, and fruity layers makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 6 tbsp margarine (melted )
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
For the Filling:
- 1 cups powdered sugar (heaping)
- 2 tbsp milk
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup pecans (chopped )
- 8 oz non-dairy whipped topping
- 21 oz prepared cherry pie filling (about 21 oz)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Mix melted margarine and graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
- Press mixture evenly into a 9×15-inch pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Allow crust to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and cream cheese.
- Beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans over the filling.
- Spread whipped topping smoothly over the pecans.
- Spoon cherry pie filling evenly on top.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Tips
- Use butter instead of margarine for richer flavor in the crust.
- Substitute vanilla wafers or shortbread crumbs for part of the graham crackers.
- Add a dash of vanilla extract to the cream cheese filling for extra depth.
- Lighten it up with light cream cheese and light whipped topping.
- Swap cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or peach pie filling.
- Toast the pecans lightly for added aroma and crunch.
- Add a thin layer of whipped topping on top before cherries for a layered look.
- Chill at least 2 to 3 hours (or overnight) for the cleanest slices.
- Make individual portions in small cups or jars for parties.
- Sprinkle finely grated chocolate or coconut over the top for garnish.
Nutrition
Calories: 315kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 3gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.43gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 160mgPotassium: 85mgFiber: 1gSugar: 26gVitamin A: 280IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 1mg
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