Experience the quintessential taste of American comfort with this “Classic Cherry Pie Delight,” a refreshing and effortlessly elegant dessert that requires no baking for its luscious filling. This pie reimagines the beloved cherry pie with a delightful, creamy twist, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust as its foundation. Layered atop is a cloud-like cream cheese filling, lightened with whipped cream and subtly sweet. The grand finale is a generous, glistening layer of vibrant cherry pie filling, providing a burst of fruity tang that perfectly balances the creamy richness below. Perfect for picnics, holidays, or any time a comforting yet cool dessert is desired, this pie is an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that embodies the joy of classic flavors with a delightful, no-fuss approach.
Detailed Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full graham cracker sheets)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz / 595g) cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry pie filling)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Freshly whipped cream or cool whip
- Maraschino cherries or fresh cherries, for garnish
- Chocolate shavings or mint sprigs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Part 1: Preparing the Graham Cracker Crust
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Have a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish or a similar-sized baking pan ready.
- Combine Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir well with a fork or spatula until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the 9-inch pie dish. Use the bottom of a glass or your fingers to create a compact, smooth crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. This step helps to set the crust and makes it extra sturdy and flavorful.
- Cool Crust: Remove the baked crust from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. It must be fully cool before adding the filling.
Part 2: Preparing the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl (preferably using an electric mixer), beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar together on medium speed for 3-5 minutes, until light, fluffy, and completely smooth with no lumps. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate, clean, chilled mixing bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or it may turn grainy.
- Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, until just combined and no streaks of cream cheese or whipped cream remain. Be gentle to keep the filling light and airy.
Part 3: Assembling the Pie
- First Layer (Cream Cheese): Once the graham cracker crust is completely cool, spread the prepared cream cheese filling evenly over the bottom of the crust.
- Second Layer (Cherry): Carefully spoon the entire can of cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer, spreading it gently to the edges.
Part 4: Chilling and Serving
- Chill: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is essential to allow the cream cheese filling to set properly, making for clean slices. For best results, chill for 4 hours or even overnight.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, you can add a generous layer of freshly whipped cream or cool whip on top, if desired. Garnish with maraschino cherries or fresh cherries for an extra touch of elegance.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled.
Tips, Variations, and Storage
- Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Whipped Cream: For best results, use a very cold bowl and beaters when whipping cream. You can chill them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes prior.
- Fruit Filling Options: While cherry is classic, this recipe works beautifully with other canned pie fillings such as blueberry, peach, or strawberry.
- Homemade Fruit Topping: For an extra special touch, you can make your own fresh cherry pie filling.
- Crust Variations: Experiment with other cookie crumbs for the crust, such as vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even chocolate cookies.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for a brighter, zingier flavor that complements the cherries.
- Individual Portions: This pie can also be made in individual ramekins or small dessert cups for single servings.
- Storage: Store the “Classic Cherry Pie Delight,” covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It is not suitable for freezing once assembled.
Pairings
- Beverages: Serve with a cup of coffee, iced tea, a glass of cold milk, or a sparkling cider.
- Occasions: This pie is a perfect dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, summer barbecues, or any time you need a delightful, easy-to-make dessert.
Quick Info
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for crust)
- Chill Time: 2 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (mostly passive chilling)
- Servings: 8 slices
- Cuisine: American / Dessert
