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This easy and creamy Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert has been a family favorite for generations! With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a sweet cherry pie filling on top, it’s the perfect dessert for holidays like Thanksgiving or any special occasion. Best served chilled, and even better when made the night before!
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Ingredients:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup melted butter (to hold the crust together)
8 oz. cream cheese, softened (for a smooth and creamy filling)
1 cup powdered sugar (adds the perfect amount of sweetness)
Dash of milk (just enough to help mix the filling)
1 can of cherry pie filling (for the fruity topping)
(Optional) 8 oz. package of Cool Whip or Dream Whip (adds a fluffy finishing touch if you like)
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Bake the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a medium-sized baking dish, spreading it evenly to create the base for your dessert. Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, just enough to set the crust. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before moving on to the next step.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a dash of milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The milk helps loosen the mixture just enough to make it easier to spread.
Assemble the Layers:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust, creating a thick, luscious layer.
Next, carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution of cherries across the top.
Optional Topping: If you like, spread a layer of Cool Whip or Dream Whip on top of the cherry pie filling for extra fluffiness. (This step is optional—some people love it, while others prefer to leave it out for a more classic dessert.)
Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled for a delightful dessert that’s rich, fruity, and creamy. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts!
This Cherry Cream Cheese Dessert is a simple yet crowd-pleasing treat that’s been a favorite for years. Whether topped with whipped cream or left as is, it’s sure to become a tradition in your home too! Enjoy!