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–+ servings
Across photo of slice of Cherry Delight dessert.

Cherry Delight

Dalya Rubin
Tested to perfection, this Cherry Delight is made with a buttery graham cracker crust and a fluffy cream cheese cool whip filling that works every time! Prep this easy cherry dessert in just 25 minutes, then chill overnight for the BEST treat. With the tart flavor from the cherry filling, to the sweet and creamy filling, you will love this Cherry Delight dessert. Every bite is so good!
5 from 10 votes
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Refrigerator Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Squares
Calories 479 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

For the Crust

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 10 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Filling

  • 3 8-ounce packages cream cheese softened at room temperature for 1 hour
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar fluffed and scooped
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest zest of about half a lemon
  • 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 8-ounce tub cool whip defrosted in the fridge or as directed on package

For the Topping

  • 1 21-ounce can cherry pie filling

Instructions
 

  • Line a 9x9-inch square cake pan with parchment paper, allowing it to overhang for easy removal later.
  • Mix together the crust ingredients in a large bowl until a sandy texture forms. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set in the freezer for 15 minutes while preparing the filling.
  • In a large bowl with a handheld electric mixer (or bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment), beat the cream cheese for 2-3 minutes on medium speed until smooth.
  • Add the powdered sugar, lemon zest and vanilla and beat on medium-high speed for 3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  • Whisk in 1/4 cup of the Cool Whip until well combined.
  • Switch to a rubber spatula and fold the remaining Cool Whip into the filling mixture until it’s thick and one cohesive filling.
  • Spoon the filling over the crust and spread into an even layer. Spread the cherry pie filling over the crust.
  • Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
  • When ready to serve, lift the parchment up and transfer the cherry delight to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice 12 squares. Serve cold and enjoy!

Notes

  • It is important to line the pan with parchment paper so the squares can be removed and sliced easily!
  • Dip your knife into hot water between each slice and wipe dry with a towel for super clean slices.
  • If you don’t have Cool Whip, you can use homemade whipped cream. You will need approximately 3 cups of whipped cream in this recipe! 

Nutrition

Serving: 1SquareCalories: 479kcal
Keyword Cherry Delight, Cherry Delight Dessert
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