Cherry Delight

By srumbel

A family recipe for the holiday's favorite dessert: Cherry Delight!
from crunchcreamysweet.com

Ingredients

• for the filling:
• For the crust
• 2 and 1/2 c graham cracker crumbs
• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 3/4 c melted butter
• 2 8oz. packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 8oz. tub whipped topping (I used Cool Whip)
• 1 c powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• for the topping:
• 1 21oz. can cherry pie filling (I used Lucky Leaf)

Preparation

Step 1

To make the crust
Line a 13" x 9" pan with aluminum foil.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter.
Press into the bottom of the pan.
To prebake the crust (it makes it more sturdier): bake for 10 minutes at 375 degree F. Cool completely before adding the filling layer.

to make the filling:
In a large mixing bowl, mix cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
Add vanilla and powdered sugar and mix well, about 2 minutes.
Add whipped topping in two additions, mix just until combined.
Do not overmix.
Spread the filling over the crust.
Refrigerate until set, at least 2 hours or overnight.

to serve:
Cut the dessert into squares. Top with filling just before serving.
Refrigerate leftovers.
Notes

The total time includes the chilling time. Prebaking the crust is optional but recommended.