Grandma’s Cherry Delight Dessert Recipe – A No-Bake Classic!
Grandma’s Cherry Delight is a timeless, creamy dessert layered with a graham cracker crust, a sweet cream cheese filling, and topped with luscious cherry pie filling. This easy-to-make treat is the perfect no-bake dessert for holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or summer gatherings. Whether you grew up with it or trying it for the first time, this cherry delight is pure nostalgia in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Delight Recipe
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No baking required (optional) – Simple prep and chill
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Perfect make-ahead dessert – Even better the next day!
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Creamy, sweet, and fruity – A crowd-pleasing combination
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Versatile – Customize with your favorite pie filling
Ingredients for Grandma’s Cherry Delight
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2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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½ cup melted butter
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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A dash of milk (about 1–2 tablespoons)
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
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8 oz Cool Whip or Dream Whip (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with ½ cup melted butter.
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Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
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Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a medium-sized baking dish (9×9 or 9×13 depending on thickness preference).
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Bake the crust at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes to set (optional step).
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Let the crust cool completely before moving on.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling
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In a large bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of powdered sugar and a splash of milk (1–2 tablespoons).
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Beat until smooth, fluffy, and creamy.
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Spread this cream cheese layer evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
3. Add the Cherry Pie Topping
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Gently spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
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Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
4. Optional: Add Whipped Topping
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If desired, spread a layer of Cool Whip or Dream Whip on top of the cherry filling for extra fluffiness and sweetness.
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This step is optional and based on personal preference. Some like it creamy and rich without the topping.
5. Chill Overnight
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Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil.
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Refrigerate overnight (or at least 4–6 hours) to allow the layers to firm and flavors to blend.
Serving Tips
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Slice into squares and serve chilled.
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Garnish with crushed graham crackers, white chocolate curls, or mint leaves for a festive touch.
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Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
More Cherry-Inspired Desserts You’ll Love:
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Cherry Cheesecake Bars
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No-Bake Cherry Cream Pie
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Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
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Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Final Thoughts
This Grandma’s Cherry Delight Dessert is more than just a treat—it’s a sweet family tradition passed down through generations. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or just because, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and seconds.
If you’ve never tried it before, give this classic a go. And if it brings back childhood memories like it does for me, well, that’s the magic of good food. ❤️
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