This No-Bake Cherry Delight is a creamy, dreamy dessert that combines a buttery crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and a sweet cherry topping. With a light, fluffy texture and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a simple family dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required – easy and hassle-free
- Smooth, creamy layers – light and fluffy with a hint of almond
- Perfect for make-ahead desserts – best when chilled overnight
- Great for any occasion – holidays, birthdays, or casual gatherings
- Classic flavors – cherry, vanilla, and almond blend beautifully
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Whipped Layer:
- 1 cup COOL WHIP whipped topping
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 7×11-inch pan.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Spread evenly over the crust. This layer will be thick.
3. Add the Whipped Topping
- In a separate bowl, fold sugar and vanilla extract into COOL WHIP.
- Spread over the cream cheese layer.
4. Add the Cherry Topping
- Mix cherry pie filling with almond extract.
- Gently spread over the whipped topping layer.
5. Chill & Serve
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 8 hours (overnight)
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Berry Delight: Use blueberry or strawberry pie filling instead of cherry.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate ganache before the whipped topping.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the cherry topping.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze without the cherry topping for up to 2 months. Thaw and add topping before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of COOL WHIP?
Yes! Whip 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. What can I use instead of graham crackers?
Try vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or crushed Oreos.
3. Can I make this in a 9×13-inch pan?
Yes! The layers will be thinner, but it works well.
4. How do I make this less sweet?
Reduce powdered sugar to 1 cup in the cream cheese layer.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best when chilled overnight, making it perfect for advance prep.
6. How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?
Press the crust firmly and chill for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
7. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes! Cook 2 cups pitted cherries with ¼ cup sugar and cornstarch until thickened.
8. How do I cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping clean between cuts.
9. Is almond extract necessary?
No, but it enhances the cherry flavor beautifully!
10. Can I use different flavored extracts?
Yes! Try lemon, coconut, or vanilla for a unique twist.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Cherry Delight is a simple yet impressive dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and incredibly delicious. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, this easy recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy every bite!
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Print- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Cherry Delight is a creamy, dreamy layered dessert with a buttery crust, sweet cream cheese filling, fluffy whipped topping, and cherry pie filling on top. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you need a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert!
Ingredients
or the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
For the Whipped Topping Layer:
- 1 cup COOL WHIP whipped topping
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 7×11-inch pan. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the mixture over the crust (it will be thick).
Step 3: Whipped Topping Layer
- In a separate bowl, mix COOL WHIP, sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Spread evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Cherry Topping
- In another bowl, stir together cherry pie filling and almond extract.
- Gently spread over the whipped topping layer.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill overnight for the best texture.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Want a crunchier crust? Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then cool completely.
- Make it lighter: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.
- Try different flavors! Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, raspberry, or strawberry.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- chill time: 4-6 hours (or overnight)
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American