Classic Cherry Delight Recipe – Easy No Bake Dessert

There’s something about a Classic Cherry Delight that instantly transports you to simpler times. Maybe it reminds you of summer potlucks, cozy family dinners, or the handwritten recipes tucked inside your grandmother’s recipe box. Whatever the memory, this no-bake dessert is a classic for a reason. It’s creamy, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet without being overwhelming. With its buttery graham cracker crust, a fluffy cream cheese and whipped topping layer, and a vibrant cherry pie filling on top, it’s a crowd-pleaser from the very first bite.

What makes this dessert truly special is how effortlessly it comes together. With just a few pantry-friendly ingredients and absolutely no oven time, it’s perfect for those moments when you want something homemade but don’t want to turn on the stove—or spend all afternoon in the kitchen. You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, let it chill in the fridge, and have a beautiful, delicious dessert ready for your next family dinner, picnic, or weekend get-together.

I first made this recipe on a whim one summer evening when we had guests over and nothing sweet to serve. I had graham crackers, cream cheese, a tub of whipped topping, and a can of cherry pie filling just sitting there, practically begging to be transformed into something nostalgic and delightful. It’s safe to say, that first batch disappeared in minutes, and this Cherry Delight has been a staple in my dessert rotation ever since.

Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned home baker, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-tos. It’s unfussy, fail-proof, and incredibly versatile. So, let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and why you’ll want to keep it in your back pocket all year long.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Cherry Delight Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Classic Cherry Delight, but here are just a few that will have you reaching for this recipe again and again.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy tools or baking skills—just a mixing bowl, a spoon or spatula, and a bit of time to chill the dessert in the fridge. The steps are straightforward, which makes it a perfect choice for beginner cooks or anyone short on time.

Second, this dessert is family-friendly and crowd-approved. Kids love the creamy texture and sweet cherry topping, and adults appreciate the nostalgic charm. It’s a great dish to bring to potlucks, holiday dinners, or just to have on hand for a sweet ending to a weekday meal.

Third, it’s all about the layers of flavor and texture. The graham cracker crust gives you a buttery, slightly crunchy base. The middle layer is light, fluffy, and creamy—just the right balance of tangy cream cheese and airy Cool Whip. And the cherry pie filling adds a juicy, fruity finish that ties everything together.

Finally, this Classic Cherry Delight recipe is adaptable. Don’t have cherry pie filling? No problem. You can swap it out for blueberry, strawberry, or even lemon curd. Want to make it a little more indulgent? Add a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top. The possibilities are endless.

Health Benefits

While Cherry Delight is definitely a treat and not a health food, it does have a few redeeming qualities that make it a reasonable indulgence when enjoyed in moderation.

Cream cheese offers a small amount of protein and calcium, which supports bone health. The whipped topping, while not exactly packed with nutrients, adds volume and texture without the need for heavy cream or excess sugar. And the cherry pie filling—especially if you opt for a low-sugar or fruit-only variety—provides a burst of antioxidants from the cherries.

The graham cracker crust, made with just a touch of sugar and butter, adds a comforting crunch without going overboard on calories. Overall, when portioned appropriately, this dessert satisfies a sweet tooth with a relatively modest calorie count compared to many baked treats.

Plus, the no-bake aspect means no additional oil or fat from frying or baking. If you’re looking for a lighter take, you can always use reduced-fat cream cheese and a lighter whipped topping. It’s an easy dessert to tweak based on your dietary needs.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours (minimum) or overnight

Servings:
Makes 9 generous square servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Classic Cherry Delight. All ingredients are easy to find and might already be in your kitchen.

The graham cracker crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

The creamy filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 8 oz Cool Whip (or any whipped topping), thawed

The topping:

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Ingredient Notes:

• Graham crackers: Choose plain honey graham crackers. You can crush them in a food processor or in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin.
• Cream cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives the richest flavor, but you can use reduced-fat if you prefer.
• Cool Whip: Adds volume and a light, fluffy texture. Make sure it’s fully thawed before folding it in.
• Cherry pie filling: You can use any fruit pie filling here. Blueberry, strawberry, or even apple would work beautifully.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by spraying a 9×9-inch square dish lightly with non-stick spray. This helps prevent the crust from sticking later.
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to create an even, compact layer.
Set aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the cream cheese filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
Gently fold in the Cool Whip using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix. You want to keep the filling light and airy.

Step 3: Assemble the layers
Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it’s level.
Next, spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream layer. Spread it gently to cover the surface without disturbing the cream layer underneath.

Step 4: Chill the dessert
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set.
For best results, chill overnight. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing much easier.

Step 5: Slice and serve
Before slicing, you can dip the bottom of the dish briefly in warm water to help loosen the crust.
Use a sharp knife to cut into 9 squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for a neater presentation.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

How to Serve

This dessert shines on its own, but you can also elevate the presentation and flavor with a few extra touches:

• Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh cherry.
• Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or slivered almonds for added texture.
• Drizzle with a bit of melted dark chocolate for a rich contrast.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing this dessert with the right side or drink can make it feel even more special:

• For a light meal finish: Serve after a grilled chicken or vegetable dish.
• With beverages: Try it with a cup of hot coffee, black tea, or iced mint tea for a refreshing contrast.
• For kids: Offer with a glass of cold milk or a strawberry smoothie.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage:
Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate. The dessert will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
You can freeze Cherry Delight for up to 1 month. Freeze the entire dessert or individual portions in airtight containers. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating:
No reheating required. Always serve chilled for best taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not chilling long enough: If you don’t give the dessert enough time to chill, the layers may not set properly, making it hard to cut cleanly.
• Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly and could lead to a lumpy filling. Always let it soften first.
• Overmixing the filling: Stirring too vigorously can deflate the whipped topping, resulting in a denser texture.
• Skipping the non-stick spray: This can cause the crust to stick to the pan, making serving difficult.
• Spreading the cherry filling too roughly: Doing so can mix the layers instead of keeping them distinct.

Pro Tips

1. Use a food processor to crush graham crackers quickly and evenly.
2. Soften cream cheese by leaving it out for 30 minutes, or microwave for 10 seconds at a time.
3. Make ahead: This dessert is perfect for prepping the night before a gathering.
4. Use full-fat ingredients for the richest flavor and texture.
5. Customize the topping: Try different fruit fillings or even lemon curd for a citrus twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a pre-made graham cracker crust works in a pinch. Just note the final dessert might be a bit thinner.

Can I make it without Cool Whip?
You can substitute homemade whipped cream, but the texture will be slightly softer. Use 1 ½ cups of whipped cream for every 8 oz of Cool Whip.

Is this dessert gluten-free?
It can be! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and make sure your pie filling is gluten-free as well.

Can I make it in a larger pan?
Absolutely. Double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan. Just add a bit more chilling time to ensure it sets properly.

What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
You can blend granulated sugar in a blender until it resembles a fine powder as a substitute.

Can I use a different pie filling?
Yes! Blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, or even mixed berry all work beautifully.

Can I freeze individual portions?
Definitely. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Chill thoroughly and use a sharp knife, wiping between cuts. Dipping the bottom of the pan in warm water can also help release the crust.

How long can it stay out at room temperature?
It’s best served chilled, but it can sit out for about 1 hour. Return any leftovers to the fridge promptly.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Try using dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping. The texture and taste may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Classic Cherry Delight is one of those timeless desserts that never goes out of style. With its simple ingredients, no-bake method, and creamy-cherry goodness, it’s the kind of treat that makes everyday moments feel a little more special. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe delivers every time.

I’d love for you to give this dessert a try and make it your own. Did you use blueberry instead of cherry? Add a chocolate drizzle? Let me know how it turned out! If you make this recipe, be sure to tag me on social media with your beautiful Cherry Delight creations. I can’t wait to see how it brings a little joy to your kitchen too.

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