A buttery graham cracker crust, a layer of fluffy cream cheese and whipped topping, and a sweet, tart cherry pie filling are the ingredients of this simple cherry dessert. This is a make-ahead meal that only has to be mixed, layered, and chilled; baking is not necessary. Ideal for potlucks, summer cookouts, or anytime you want a dessert without using the oven.
Cherry Yum Yum Recipe
Course: Desserts RecipesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings20
minutes10
minutes350
kcalCherry Yum Yum Recipe
Ingredients
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Directions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch or 9×13-inch baking dish (depending on how thick you want the layers). Set aside or chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust. Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer. Top with the remaining cream cheese mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!
Recipe Video
Serving Suggestions
- For optimal texture and flavor, serve Cherry Yum Yum chilled and sliced right out of the refrigerator.
- Topped with Extra Whipped Cream: For added decadence, top with a dollop of Cool Whip or fresh whipped cream just before serving.
- For an elegant touch, garnish with shaved white chocolate or broken graham crackers.
- Enjoy it with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for the ideal pairing.
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to four or five days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Cherry Yum Yum (without the cherry topping) keeps for up to a month in the freezer. Before serving, add cherries on top and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect for making the night before since the layers set more attractively if it is allowed to chill overnight.
FAQs
Is homemade cherry pie filling acceptable?
A: Of course! You can adjust the sweetness and add a fresh, tart flavor with homemade cherry pie filling.
Can I avoid gluten in this dessert?
A: Sure, just make the crust with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
Is it possible to use actual whipped cream in place of whipped topping?
A: You can, but to ensure that the layers stay intact, use stabilized whipped cream.
What pan size should I use?
A 9×13-inch pan produces thinner, more dispersed parts, but a 9×9-inch dish produces thicker layers—both are excellent!
