Looking for pure dessert bliss? This Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert is absolutely dreamy-light, creamy, and perfectly sweet, bursting with juicy cherries atop a rich cream cheese layer.
With a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth and tangy filling, and that irresistible cherry topping, it's a showstopping treat that comes together with minimal effort. Even better, it requires no baking, making it ideal for warm days or when you need a fuss-free make-ahead dessert.
This recipe is my go-to for family gatherings, potlucks, and holidays-it's always the first dish to disappear! Each delicious bite brings back childhood memories of summer celebrations and special occasions.
Try it once, and you'll understand why it's a must-make classic!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- No-bake ease saves you time-ready in just a few simple steps!
- Dreamy, creamy texture paired with luscious cherry topping.
- Perfect for potlucks, parties, or any crowd-pleasing occasion.
- Make ahead for effortless entertaining.
- Customizable with different toppings for your personal twist!
Key Ingredients for Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert
See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.Cream Cheese
The heart of this dessert, cream cheese gives the filling its signature tangy richness and dense, creamy texture. For best results, use full-fat, block-style cream cheese at room temperature-it blends smoothest without lumps. If you want a lighter dessert, you can try reduced-fat cream cheese, but skip whipped or spreadable types as they'll make the filling too soft.
Graham Crackers
Graham cracker crumbs form the classic, crumbly crust that perfectly complements the creamy layers above. Crush them finely for a sturdy base. You can swap with vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a slightly different flavor profile, or use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
Cherry Pie Filling
Vibrant, sweet-tart cherry pie filling crowns the dessert and adds a gorgeous pop of color. Store-bought works just fine for a quick and easy treat, but you can substitute with homemade cherry topping or other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry if you like to mix it up!
Whipped Topping
Light and fluffy whipped topping helps the filling set to that perfect, airy consistency. A store-bought non-dairy whipped topping makes things fast and foolproof, but you can easily swap in homemade whipped cream for a richer result-just be sure it's whipped to stiff peaks.
Butter
Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs for the crust, adding a toasty flavor and helping everything hold together. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the final flavor, but salted works in a pinch. Coconut oil can be substituted for a subtle coconut twist!
Instructions for Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert
See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Blend until the crumbs are evenly coated and look like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Whip the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy-no lumps! Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined and the mixture is fluffy.
Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Mix just until blended and smooth, being careful not to deflate all the fluffiness. This step gives the filling its signature light texture!
Assemble the Dessert Layers
Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, smoothing out the top. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out to cover every luscious inch.
Chill and Serve
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to set. When ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy! Chilling helps the layers become firm and easy to cut.
Recipe Variations
Try Homemade Whipped Cream
If you prefer a richer, homemade touch, swap the store-bought whipped topping for 1 ½ cups of freshly whipped heavy cream (whipped to stiff peaks). This makes the filling extra decadent and less sweet.
Make It Gluten-Free
Easily create a gluten-free treat by using gluten-free graham crackers or a nut-based crust instead. Just make sure all other ingredients (like whipped topping) are gluten-free as well.
Fruit Topping Swap
Not a fan of cherry? You can top this dessert with blueberry or strawberry pie filling, lemon curd, or even fresh berries lightly sweetened-any of your favorites will work!
Lightened-Up Version
For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and a light whipped topping. The filling will be a little less rich but still satisfyingly creamy.
Add a Nutty Crunch
Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds on top just before serving for some extra crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert makes a sweet finish to any meal. Serve chilled straight from the fridge, garnished with a dollop of extra whipped topping and a few extra fresh cherries or a sprig of mint for a touch of color. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for pure dessert perfection!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve chilled-this dessert does not require reheating. For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled dessert (without cherry topping) tightly wrapped for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add the cherry topping just before serving for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this dessert ahead of time?A: Yes! In fact, it's best when made at least a few hours-or even a day-ahead so the flavors can meld and the layers set firmly.
Q: Can I use homemade cherry pie filling or fresh cherries?A: Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling adds a wonderful homemade touch, and fresh cherries work great if they're cooked with a little sugar to create a syrupy topping.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?A: Definitely. Simply use a larger pan or two 9x13-inch pans, and double all ingredients to make enough for a big gathering.
Craving a dessert that's blissfully easy and guaranteed to impress? This Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert is a creamy, fruity classic that always hits the sweet spot. I hope you give it a try-leave a comment and rating to let me know how it turned out for you!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
Instructions
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1Combine graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix well.
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2Press the mixture firmly into an ungreased 9x13-inch pan to create an even crust. Chill while making the filling.
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3Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
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4Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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5Spread cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled crust.
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6Top with cherry pie filling, spreading to cover the filling completely.
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7Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until set. Cut into squares and serve.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
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