Grandma’s Cherry Delight Dessert

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Every family has that one recipe—simple, sweet, and always the first to disappear at the dessert table. For me, it’s this Grandma’s Cherry Delight Dessert. Layers of buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, and vibrant cherry pie topping come together in a chilled, no-bake treat that tastes like pure comfort.

I remember watching my grandma make this every Thanksgiving—pressing the buttery crumbs into the dish with her hands and sneaking me a taste of the cream cheese layer before she topped it off with glossy cherries. No fancy techniques, just honest, heartwarming dessert.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just need a make-ahead crowd-pleaser, this nostalgic gem delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Convenience
  Quick to prepare and no oven required—unless you want to toast the crust for extra crunch.
• Creamy + Crunchy + Fruity
  Each bite hits the perfect trio of texture and flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly
  Chills overnight for best results—great for entertaining.
• Customizable Toppings
  Swap cherries for blueberries, strawberries, or even lemon curd.
• Classic Family Favorite
  Loved by kids and grown-ups alike.

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Ingredients

Serves 8–10

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tbsp milk (just enough to smooth the mixture)
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• (Optional) 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip or Dream Whip)

How to Make Grandma’s Cherry Delight

Step 1: Make the Crust

• Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a medium-sized baking dish (8×8 or 9×9).
• Optional: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes to set the crust—then cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

• In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and 1 tbsp of milk.
• Add more milk as needed to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
• Spread evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Layer

• Spoon cherry pie filling gently over the cream cheese mixture.
• Spread evenly to cover the surface.

Step 4: Optional Topping

• If desired, spread whipped topping over the cherries for extra fluff and creaminess.
  (I usually skip it—Grandma liked it just as it is.)

Step 5: Chill and Serve

• Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight, or at least 6 hours, until fully set.
• Slice and serve cold.

Tips for the Best Cherry Delight

• Chill overnight for clean slices and perfect layers.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Toast the crust for added depth, but it’s delicious even without baking.
• Use homemade cherry pie filling if you want to skip the canned version.

FAQs

Can I use a pre-made graham crust?
Yes. Just skip the crust step and build your layers on the pre-made base.

What other toppings work well?
Try blueberry, raspberry, strawberry pie filling—or lemon for a citrus twist.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter, vegan cream cheese, and coconut whipped topping.

Final Thoughts

Grandma’s Cherry Delight isn’t just a dessert—it’s a tradition. It’s the kind of dish that gets passed from one generation to the next, with cherry filling-stained recipe cards and memories of holiday dinners and birthday potlucks. And now it can be part of your tradition too.

Share Your Cherry Delight

Did this dessert make it to your family table?
Tag your creations with #CherryDelightDessert and show us your holiday table favorite.