Cherry Delight is a dessert that dances on your taste buds, combining the tangy sweetness of cherries with a creamy, dreamy texture. Picture this: a luscious layer of cherry filling nestled atop a velvety cream cheese base, all sitting on a crumbly graham cracker crust. Every bite is an explosion of flavor and nostalgia, bringing back memories of summer picnics and family gatherings where laughter mingles with the aroma of sweet treats. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday bash or simply a Tuesday that could use some pizzazz. Imagine serving it to friends who can’t resist sneaking back for seconds while you bask in the glory of your culinary prowess. Cherry Delight promises to be the highlight of your dessert table, ensuring that everyone leaves with happy hearts and full stomachs.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cherry Delight recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks
- The burst of flavors will have your taste buds singing in delight
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning at any gathering or celebration
- Versatile enough to adapt with different fruits, this dessert can suit any season or occasion
I once made Cherry Delight for my cousin’s wedding, and let’s just say the cake got jealous when the guests devoured it before I even had a piece!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: Opt for ripe, sweet cherries; they add natural sweetness and flavor to your dessert.
- Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese for easy blending and a smooth texture.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetener dissolves easily and ensures a perfectly sweetened filling.
- Graham Crackers: Choose plain graham crackers for the crust; they provide that ideal crunchy base.
- Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together; using unsalted gives you better control over seasoning.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the flavor profile, adding warmth and depth to the mixture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Crust: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture into a pie dish firmly.
Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding any layers on top.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You want it fluffy like clouds on a sunny day.
Add Cherry Topping: Once your cream cheese layer is set in the cooled crust, pour fresh cherry juice mixed with halved cherries over it. Spread evenly so each slice gets fruity goodness.
Chill Before Serving: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight if you can resist! This will allow all those flavors to meld beautifully.
Slice & Serve**: When ready to serve, cut into squares or wedges. Your guests will be lining up faster than you can say “Cherry Delight.” Enjoy their delighted reactions as they dig in!
Make sure to follow each step carefully; soon enough, you’ll find yourself indulging in this delightful treat that’s bound to become your new favorite dessert!
You Must Know
- Cherry Delight is not just a dessert; it’s an experience!
- The sweet aroma fills your kitchen, and the vibrant colors brighten any table
- Pair it with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat that everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust while preheating your oven. Once the crust is ready, layer the cherries and bake until bubbly, ensuring a golden top.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding almond extract for a unique twist or substituting fresh cherries with frozen ones if fresh aren’t available.
Storing & Reheating
Store Cherry Delight in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect crust, use cold butter for flakiness
- Avoid overmixing to keep it tender
- For juicy cherries, toss them in sugar before baking to enhance their sweetness
I remember the first time I made Cherry Delight for my family gathering; they couldn’t stop raving about it! One friend even asked for seconds, which was a huge win in my book.
FAQ
What type of cherries should I use for Cherry Delight?
Fresh sweet cherries work best, but you can use frozen if necessary.
Can I make Cherry Delight ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate until serving.
How do I know when my Cherry Delight is done?
It’s done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Cherry Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Cherry Delight, a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe cherries with a rich cream cheese layer over a crumbly graham cracker crust. This no-bake treat is ideal for any occasion, from summer picnics to family gatherings, leaving everyone craving more. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, Cherry Delight is sure to be the centerpiece of your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press into a pie dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
- In a large bowl, blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture into the cooled crust. Top with halved cherries and their juice, spreading evenly.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Slice into squares or wedges and serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (90g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg