No bake cherry delight is a nostalgic favorite that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat. With a buttery graham cracker base, a velvety cream cheese layer, and a luscious cherry topping, this no-bake dessert delivers a refreshing bite in every spoonful. Whether you’re hosting a family get-together or simply craving a cool treat, this dish offers everything you love in a homemade dessert without the hassle of turning on the oven.
This version of the recipe brings a perfect blend of texture and taste in a no-stress format. It’s an excellent choice for warm weather occasions, potlucks, or any moment you want a sweet dish you can make ahead with ease.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this no bake cherry delight so lovable is its simplicity, speed, and reliable results. It calls for basic ingredients that come together to form a balanced dessert that’s light, creamy, and sweet—but never too rich.
The contrasting layers give it both visual appeal and satisfying texture. From the crumbly crust to the airy middle and fruity topping, each bite feels indulgent but light enough for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s walk through the components of this recipe and the purpose each ingredient serves.
Unsalted Butter (7 tablespoons)
This is what holds the crust together. Once melted, it binds the graham cracker crumbs into a firm layer with a smooth, buttery finish.
Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 ½ cups, or roughly 9 crackers)
These crumbs are the backbone of the crust. Slightly sweet with a mild nutty taste, they create the perfect base for the creamy filling.
Granulated Sugar (3 tablespoons)
Adding sugar to the crust enhances its flavor and helps the crust set more firmly in the fridge.
Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened)
Cream cheese is the star of the filling. Its creamy consistency and slight tang offer a delicious contrast to the sweet fruit topping.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup)
Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this blends smoothly with the cream cheese to add sweetness without any graininess.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
This simple addition elevates the entire dessert by enhancing the flavor of the filling and balancing the overall taste.
Cool Whip (8 ounces, thawed)
This whipped topping gives the filling a light, fluffy texture while helping it hold its shape once refrigerated.
Cherry Pie Filling (21 ounces)
The bright, glossy topping adds both a burst of cherry flavor and a beautiful red finish that makes this dessert stand out.
How to Make No Bake Cherry Delight
Putting this dessert together involves just a few easy steps. With no baking involved, it’s a stress-free process that anyone can do, even on a busy schedule.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by melting the butter in a medium bowl. Mix in the graham cracker crumbs and sugar until the mixture resembles damp sand. Press the crust into a greased 8×8-inch dish, smoothing it out evenly to form a solid base.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to mix until everything is fully combined and fluffy. Gently fold in the Cool Whip, mixing just until the texture is uniform and light.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Evenly spread the cream cheese filling over the prepared crust. Then carefully add the cherry pie filling on top, distributing it gently so you don’t disturb the layer underneath.
Step 4: Chill the Dessert
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least two hours. For best results, let it chill overnight to firm up fully and allow the flavors to come together.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice the dessert using a warm, sharp knife for clean cuts. Wipe the blade between each slice to keep the layers neat. Serve cold and enjoy.
Helpful Tips
Allow the cream cheese to fully soften at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
Don’t skip the chilling time—this is what gives the dessert its structure.
For easy slicing, run your knife under hot water and wipe clean between each cut.
Use a glass or ceramic dish if you want the layers to show through for presentation.
Details
Flavor: Lightly sweet with a creamy tang and fruity finish
Texture: Creamy filling with a soft graham cracker crust and juicy topping
Occasion: Great for birthdays, BBQs, holidays, or casual family dinners
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: At least 2 hours
Notes
You can swap the cherry topping for blueberry, peach, or even lemon curd for a twist.
Homemade whipped cream can be used in place of Cool Whip for a more natural version.
For added brightness, mix in a bit of lemon zest with the filling.
This recipe also works beautifully when made in mini cups or jars for individual servings.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 180mg
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is no bake cherry delight made of?
It’s made from a graham cracker crust, a fluffy cream cheese and whipped topping layer, and a cherry pie filling topping.
Can no bake cherry delight be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. It actually tastes better when made in advance, giving the layers time to set.
How long does no bake cherry delight need to set in the fridge?
A minimum of two hours is needed, though chilling overnight offers the best texture and flavor.
Can no bake cherry delight be frozen?
Yes. Wrap it well and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Note that the texture might soften slightly.
Storage Instructions
Store in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for up to four days. To freeze, wrap the dish securely with plastic wrap and then foil. Label it and freeze for up to one month. To serve, allow the dessert to thaw in the fridge for several hours. Do not microwave to defrost, as it may ruin the texture.
Print
No Bake Cherry Delight | Classic, Creamy, and Irresistibly Simple
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy layered dessert with a graham cracker crust, whipped cream cheese center, and cherry topping. No baking required.
Ingredients
7 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
21 ounces cherry pie filling
Instructions
1. Melt butter and combine with graham crumbs and sugar. Press into a greased 8×8 dish.
2. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix well.
3. Fold in Cool Whip gently to keep the filling light.
4. Spread cream layer over crust evenly.
5. Top with cherry pie filling, spreading carefully.
6. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Notes
Substitute cherry with blueberry or lemon topping.
Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip if desired.
Chill overnight for best flavor and sliceability.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Refrigerate
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Conclusion
No bake cherry delight is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that offers creamy richness and fruity charm without the need for baking. It’s perfect for busy days when you still want to serve something special. With just a handful of ingredients and a little prep time, you’ll have a chilled, layered treat that looks beautiful and tastes even better. Whether you serve it at a holiday dinner or enjoy a slice on a quiet evening, this dessert delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.