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Cherry Delight from Laurece Jordan
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.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 15
Calories 315 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

  • 6 tbsp margarine (melted )
  • 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 9x15-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
Keyword cherry dessert, creamy, easy dessert, family favorite, graham cracker crust, no-bake filling, potluck dessert, refrigerator dessert, vintage recipe
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