Classic Cherry Delight

 Classic Cherry Delight: A Creamy, Sweet, and Refreshing Treat

## 🍒✨ Classic Cherry Delight: A Creamy, Sweet, and Refreshing Treat

If you're craving a dessert that’s cool, creamy, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet, look no further than **Classic Cherry Delight**. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a fluffy cream cheese filling, and a glossy topping of sweet cherry pie filling, this **retro dessert** never goes out of style.

It’s perfect for **summer BBQs, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want something delicious without turning on the oven**.

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## 🧾 Ingredients

### For the Crust:

* **1½ cups graham cracker crumbs**

  *Crumbly and buttery — the perfect base for this chilled dessert.*

* **⅓ cup granulated sugar**

* **½ cup (1 stick) melted butter**

  *Binds the crust and adds rich flavor.*

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### For the Filling:

* **8 oz cream cheese**, softened

  *The creamy base that gives the filling structure and tang.*

* **1 cup powdered sugar**

* **1 tsp vanilla extract**

  *Enhances the flavor with sweet, floral notes.*

* **1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping** *(like Cool Whip)*

  *Gives the filling its light, airy texture.*

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### For the Topping:

* **1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling**

  *Sweet, tart, and irresistibly glossy — the signature finish!*

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## 👩‍🍳 Instructions

### 🔹 1. Make the Crust

* In a medium bowl, combine **graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter**.

* Press firmly into the bottom of a **9x9-inch or 9x13-inch** baking dish (depending on desired thickness).

* Place in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.

### 🔹 2. Make the Filling

* In a large bowl, beat the **cream cheese** until smooth.

* Add **powdered sugar** and **vanilla**; beat until creamy and fully combined.

* Fold in the **whipped topping** gently until smooth and fluffy.

### 🔹 3. Assemble

* Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

* Spoon the **cherry pie filling** over the top and gently spread.

### 🔹 4. Chill

* Cover and refrigerate for at least **4 hours**, or overnight for best texture and flavor.

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## 🍽️ Serving Tips

* Cut into squares and serve chilled.

* Garnish with **extra whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or toasted almonds** for a twist.

* Make in individual jars or cups for a fun party presentation.

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## 💡 Variations

* **Use different fruit fillings**: Blueberry, strawberry, or peach work beautifully.

* **From-scratch topping**: Make a homemade cherry compote with fresh or frozen cherries.

* **Low sugar version**: Use a sugar substitute and sugar-free whipped topping.