This luscious dessert combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the bright, sweet-tart flavor of cherries, creating a perfect balance that is irresistible.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
Optional: fresh cherries for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are fully moistened, resembling wet sand.
Press the mixture: Firmly press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Fold the cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
Assemble the dessert: Pour the cream cheese filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
Chill: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Add the topping: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
