Cherry Delight (No-Bake Dessert)
A simple, classic, 20-minute no-bake dessert with a graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and sweet cherry topping. Perfect year-round and easy to customize!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the crust without a food processor?
Yes! Place graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. Mix with melted butter and sugar in a bowl.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely—prepare 1–2 days ahead. Keep covered in the refrigerator.
Can I use other pie fillings?
Absolutely! Try blueberry, strawberry, peach, or mixed berry.
What else can I add for flavor?
-
Add lemon extract to the cream cheese filling.
-
Add almond extract (1 tsp) to cherry pie filling for a flavor boost.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan.
Why spray the dish before adding parchment?
The spray helps parchment adhere and prevents shifting. Optional, but helpful.
How to store leftovers?
-
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Freeze (best without topping) for up to 3 months.
Ingredients Needed
(For full 8×8 pan)
Crust
-
9 graham crackers (or equivalent crumbs)
-
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
-
½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted
-
If using unsalted butter, add ½ teaspoon salt
-
Filling
-
16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, room temperature
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
1 tsp vanilla extract (or flavor of choice)
-
8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
Topping
-
21 oz can cherry pie filling
-
Optional: 1 tsp almond extract
-
How to Make Cherry Delight
1. Prepare the Pan
Spray an 8×8 baking dish with non-stick spray.
Line bottom with parchment, leaving “handles” for easy lifting.
2. Make the Crust
-
Pulse graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter in a food processor until combined.
(Or crush by hand and mix in a bowl.) -
Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan using a measuring cup or glass.
3. Make the Filling
-
Beat softened cream cheese in a mixer on medium-high for 4–5 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
-
Add powdered sugar and vanilla; mix just until combined.
-
Fold in Cool Whip with a spatula until smooth and uniform.
-
Spread over the crust.
4. Chill
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum firmness.
5. Add Topping & Serve
-
Spread cherry pie filling evenly on top.
-
Cut into 9 squares.
-
Serve chilled.
Notes
-
You can use any canned pie filling.
-
Almond extract really enhances cherry flavor.
-
Spray + parchment keeps the paper from sliding.
-
Double for a 9×13 pan.
-
Store leftovers for 3 days in fridge.
Nutrition (Estimated)
Per serving (1 of 9 squares):
-
Calories: 502
-
Carbs: 54g
-
Protein: 5g
-
Fat: 30g
-
Sodium: 361mg
-
Fiber: 1g
-
Sugar: 25g
If you’d like:
✔ a printable recipe card
✔ a short, condensed recipe
✔ conversions to metric
✔ variations (Oreo crust, lemon version, mini cups)