Sweet & Juicy Classic Cherry Delight Recipe for Dessert Lovers

Sweet cherry desserts always bring memories of summer gatherings, and this classic cherry delight recipe promises pure nostalgic comfort.

Grandmothers across midwest kitchens perfected these creamy delights decades ago.

Layers of soft clouds merge with bright crimson fruit in one irresistible treat.

Tart cherries dance alongside smooth cream cheese, creating magical textures that melt instantly.

Minimal ingredients and simple steps mean anyone can craft this spectacular dessert.

Rich flavors blend seamlessly, promising a decadent experience with every single bite.

We challenge you to resist diving into this incredible cherry sensation that feels like pure happiness on a plate.

Why Classic Cherry Delight Is Always A Win

• Crush-Proof Crust: Graham cracker base provides a sturdy, delightful foundation that won't crumble when serving.
• Swift Layering Magic: Simple step-by-step process allows quick assembly without complicated techniques, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Cherry Charm Dessert: Vibrant fruit topping transforms an ordinary cheesecake-style treat into a stunning, crowd-pleasing masterpiece that looks professionally crafted.
• No-Bake Bliss: Requires zero oven time, making this dessert ideal for warm seasons when turning on kitchen appliances feels overwhelming.

Ingredients Needed For Cherry Delight

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the dessert.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, smooth texture.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the crust hold together.

• Cherries: Fresh or frozen fruit that provides a vibrant and tangy flavor profile.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the cherry mixture and create a glossy consistency.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and helps balance the sweetness of the cherries.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a rich and creamy base with a smooth texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream layer and helps create a silky consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor to the cream mixture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds lightness and helps create a fluffy texture.
• Sour Cream: Brings a tangy depth and contributes to the creamy smoothness.

Steps To Make Classic Cherry Delight

Step 1: Create Delicious Crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until the texture resembles coarse, moist sand. Use a mixing bowl and combine ingredients thoroughly with a spatula or fork.

Step 2: Press and Chill Crust

Transfer the crumb mixture into a 9×13 inch baking pan. Press firmly and evenly across the bottom to create a compact layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to help the crust set.

Step 3: Cook Cherry Filling

• Pitted cherries
• Granulated sugar
• Cornstarch
• Lemon juice

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Cool Cherry Mixture

Remove the cherry mixture from heat and let it cool completely to room temperature. Stir occasionally to prevent skin from forming on top.

Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Base

Use an electric mixer to whip cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending until well incorporated.

Step 6: Whip Cream Mixture

In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in sour cream until completely combined.

Step 7: Combine Cream Layers

Carefully fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy cream layer.

Step 8: Spread Cream Layer

Spread the cream mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, ensuring a smooth surface.

Step 9: Add Cherry Topping

Spoon the cooled cherry mixture over the cream layer, creating an attractive fruit topping.

Step 10: Chill and Set

Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows flavors to meld and layers to set completely.

Step 11: Serve and Garnish

Slice into squares. Optionally garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves before serving.

Tips For Perfect Cherry Delight Every Time

• Optimize Crust Texture: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly to create a solid, crisp base that won't crumble when serving.
• Prevent Runny Filling: Cook cherry mixture until it thickens and becomes glossy to ensure a stable, concentrated fruit layer that won't leak into cream.
• Achieve Smooth Cream Layer: Whip cream cheese and heavy cream separately, then gently fold together to maintain a light, airy texture without deflating.
• Enhance Flavor Development: Refrigerate dessert for minimum 4 hours, allowing ingredients to blend and develop a richer, more integrated taste profile.
• Control Moisture Balance: Cool cherry mixture completely before adding to prevent excess liquid from making the dessert soggy or separating layers.

Ways To Make Cherry Delight Your Own

• Gluten-Free Cherry Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Cherry Cream Dessert: Swap cream cheese with cashew cream, use coconut whipped cream, and replace butter with coconut oil for a plant-based alternative.
• Low-Sugar Cherry Treat: Substitute granulated sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and use fresh cherries to reduce overall sugar content.
• Berry Medley Variation: Replace cherries with mixed berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a colorful fruit fusion dessert.

What Goes With Classic Cherry Delight

• Savor Sweet Harmony: Cherry Cream Dessert Pairings
• Elevate Flavor with Red Wine: A full-bodied Pinot Noir or fruity Zinfandel complements the rich cherry cream, balancing the dessert's sweetness with its robust wine profile.
• Refresh with Herbal Tea: Steep chamomile or lavender tea to cleanse the palate and enhance the dessert's delicate cream and tart cherry notes, creating a soothing taste experience.
• Match with Almond Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds on top or serve alongside the dessert to add a nutty texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth cream and juicy cherries.

Best Storage For Cherry Delight

• Store leftovers in an airtight container, keeping the dessert flat to preserve layered structure. Will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Can be frozen up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
• Never leave at room temperature more than 2 hours due to dairy ingredients. Always keep chilled.
• Best enjoyed cold. If slightly warmed, microwave gently for 10-15 seconds, watching carefully to prevent cream separation.

Classic Cherry Delight FAQs

• Are graham crackers essential for the crust?

Yes, graham crackers provide a sweet, crisp base that complements the creamy and fruity layers. If unavailable, you can substitute with digestive biscuits or crushed vanilla cookies.

• Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly. Just thaw and drain them completely before cooking to prevent excess liquid in the filling.

• How do I know when the cherry mixture is properly thickened?

The mixture is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and has a glossy, jam-like consistency. It should leave a clear path when you run a finger through it.

Classic Cherry Delight Recipe

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4.8 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 37 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Cherry delight brings nostalgia and sweet comfort to classic dessert lovers. Homemade goodness mingles with creamy textures and rich fruity flavors, promising pure indulgence you’ll savor with each delightful spoonful.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit Layer:

• 3 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Cream Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream

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Instructions

1. Prepare the graham cracker crust by thoroughly mixing melted butter with graham cracker crumbs and sugar until the mixture resembles coarse, moist sand.
2. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan, creating an even, compact layer. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set the crust.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the cherry mixture from heat and allow it to cool completely to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent skin formation.
5. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese until smooth and creamy, gradually incorporating powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
6. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in sour cream until well combined.
7. Carefully fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy cream layer.
8. Spread the cream layer evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, ensuring a smooth surface.
9. Carefully spoon the cooled cherry mixture over the cream layer, creating an attractive fruit topping.
10. Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and layers to set completely.
11. Before serving, slice into squares and garnish with additional fresh cherries or mint leaves if desired.

Notes

• Customize the crust by mixing different cookie types like chocolate or vanilla wafers for unique flavor profiles.
• Experiment with alternative fruit toppings such as blueberries or mixed berries to create seasonal variations.
• Reduce sugar content by using fresh cherries and sugar-free sweeteners for a lighter, diabetic-friendly dessert option.
• Enhance dairy-free adaptability by substituting cream cheese with coconut cream and using plant-based whipping alternatives.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 373
• Sugar: 23 g
• Sodium: 155 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 66 mg