**Classic Cherry Delight**
A delightful, sweet, and creamy dessert, Classic Cherry Delight is a timeless treat that brings together the richness of cream cheese, the tartness of cherries, and a touch of sweetness in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual family dinners, it’s a dish that combines comfort with indulgence.
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### **Origin**
The origins of Classic Cherry Delight are difficult to trace precisely, but it is often considered a Midwestern American dessert. It has been a staple at family gatherings and potlucks, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s, when jello-based desserts were all the rage in American kitchens. Its simplicity, coupled with the sweet and tart cherry topping, made it a favorite for many generations.
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### **Cultural Significance**
Classic Cherry Delight holds nostalgic value in many American households, especially in the Midwest, where dishes with simple ingredients and easy preparation methods have a deep cultural tie to home cooking traditions. It reflects the resourcefulness of home cooks and the joy of creating something indulgent without requiring extensive culinary skill. This dessert also makes frequent appearances during holiday meals, adding a burst of color and flavor to the table.
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### **Ingredients & Quantity**
– **Cream Cheese** – 8 oz (softened)
– **Cool Whip** – 8 oz
– **Sweetened Condensed Milk** – 1 can (14 oz)
– **Lemon Juice** – 2 tbsp
– **Graham Cracker Crumbs** – 1 ½ cups (for crust)
– **Butter** – 1/4 cup (melted)
– **Granulated Sugar** – 2 tbsp (for crust)
– **Cherry Pie Filling** – 1 can (21 oz)
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### **Optional Additions**
– **Vanilla Extract** – 1 tsp (for added flavor depth)
– **Chopped Pecans or Walnuts** – 1/4 cup (for crunch)
– **Coconut Flakes** – 1/4 cup (for extra texture)
– **Fresh Cherries** – as a garnish for a fresh touch
– **Chocolate Chips** – for a chocolate twist
– **Orange Zest** – a teaspoon for a citrusy hint
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### **Tips for Success**
1. **Softening Cream Cheese**: Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
2. **Chill Before Serving**: Allow the dessert to chill in the fridge for several hours (or overnight) to ensure it sets properly and the flavors meld together.
3. **Layering**: Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the dish to form a solid base, which will help prevent it from becoming too crumbly.
4. **Avoid Overmixing**: When combining the cream cheese and Cool Whip, mix gently to maintain the airy texture of the whipped topping.
5. **Serving Tip**: For cleaner slices, use a warm knife to cut through the dessert. Simply dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before slicing.
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### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Crust**: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a uniform crust. Set aside.
2. **Make the Filling**: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice, and continue to mix until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
3. **Assemble the Dessert**: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
4. **Add Cherry Topping**: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out to cover the surface completely.
5. **Chill**: Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the dessert to firm up and the flavors to develop.
6. **Serve**: Slice into squares or serve directly from the baking dish. Optionally, garnish with fresh cherries or chopped nuts before serving.
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### **Description**
Classic Cherry Delight is a multi-layered dessert that combines a crunchy graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy cream cheese filling, and a bright and tangy cherry topping. The balance of textures and flavors—from the sweet and creamy filling to the zesty, fruit-laden topping—makes it a crowd-pleasing option for all types of gatherings. Its simplicity allows for customization, making it adaptable to many tastes and dietary preferences.
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### **Nutritional Information** (Per Serving, approximate)
– **Calories**: 300-350 kcal
– **Total Fat**: 18g
– Saturated Fat: 10g
– **Cholesterol**: 40mg
– **Sodium**: 150mg
– **Total Carbohydrates**: 35g
– Dietary Fiber: 1g
– Sugars: 25g
– **Protein**: 3g
– **Vitamin A**: 8% DV
– **Vitamin C**: 4% DV
– **Calcium**: 6% DV
– **Iron**: 4% DV
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### **Conclusion**
Classic Cherry Delight is a rich, flavorful dessert that combines the best of creamy textures with a refreshing fruity topping. Its nostalgic value and simple ingredients make it a go-to dessert for any occasion, while its versatility allows for creative twists. Whether served at a festive gathering or a casual family dinner, it’s a dessert that’s sure to be a hit.
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### **Recommendation**
For those looking to indulge without feeling overly guilty, this dessert offers a balance of sweetness and fruit that can be lightened by using lower-fat cream cheese or a sugar-free pie filling. Embrace this indulgence in moderation, or get creative with optional additions to fit your dietary preferences and mood. Classic Cherry Delight is an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a crowd-pleasing dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.