If you’re a fan of desserts that strike the perfect balance between luscious chocolate, tangy fruit, and creamy textures, you’ll fall head over heels for Chocolate & Cherry Delight. This no-bake treat layers a buttery graham cracker crust, silky cream cheese filling, tart cherry pie topping, and a dreamy chocolate ganache. Each bite is a happy marriage of flavors and textures, making this a show-stopping favorite for potlucks, celebrations, or whenever that sweet craving strikes. It’s incredibly easy to prepare but always leaves a lasting impression, making it the kind of recipe you’ll want to share with the people you love.

Chocolate & Cherry Delight Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chocolate & Cherry Delight is how a handful of accessible groceries can become something so memorable! Each ingredient in this lineup plays a star role, bringing out the best in flavor, texture, and irresistible color.

Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation for a sweet and slightly crunchy base that holds all the layers together.
Unsalted butter (melted): Gives the crust richness and helps bind the crumbs for that classic sliceable bottom.
Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the graham and butter crust.
Cream cheese (softened): Brings a creamy, tangy layer that offsets the sweetness of the fruity and chocolatey toppings.
Powdered sugar: Dissolves smoothly into the cream cheese, creating a light and luscious filling.
Vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the creamy middle layer.
Whipped topping (thawed): Makes the filling airy and adds a cloud-like finishing touch on top.
Cherry pie filling: Delivers that unmistakable bright, tangy fruit flavor, and a gorgeous pop of color.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into a decadent ganache for an extra layer of indulgence.
Heavy cream: Turns those chocolate chips silky smooth, making the ganache easy to spread and wonderfully glossy.

How to Make Chocolate & Cherry Delight

Step 1: Build the Buttery Graham Cracker Crust

Start by mixing your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Give it a good stir until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press this firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, using your hands or the bottom of a glass to create an even, compact layer. This simple crust sets the stage for your Chocolate & Cherry Delight, offering crunch and rich flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps. Next, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, dashing them in for sweetness and an inviting aroma. Beat again until everything is fully incorporated, then gently fold in half of the whipped topping. You’re looking for a filling with a silky, airy texture. Once ready, spread this lovely mixture evenly over the prepared crust, making sure to reach all the corners.

Step 3: Layer on the Cherry Pie Filling

Open your can of cherry pie filling and gently spoon it over the cream cheese layer. Using the back of your spoon or a spatula, carefully spread the cherries in an even layer. This step brings that signature fruity, tangy burst with every serving, and the vibrant red cherries make Chocolate & Cherry Delight truly eye-catching.

Step 4: Prepare and Pour the Chocolate Ganache

Mix the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat this process in 30-second intervals until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is silky smooth. Let the ganache cool just a bit—just enough so it’s not piping hot—then pour it lovingly over the cherry layer. Use a spatula to get an even, glossy blanket of chocolate right to the edges.

Step 5: Chill Until Perfect, Then Finish with Whipped Topping

Place your dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least four hours, letting all the layers set up for clean, gorgeous slices. Right before serving, you can dollop or spread the remaining whipped topping on top for a dreamy, cloud-like finish. The wait might feel long, but it’s oh-so worth it—each spoonful of Chocolate & Cherry Delight is a little taste of dessert heaven!

How to Serve Chocolate & Cherry Delight

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect finish, sprinkle some extra chocolate shavings or a fresh cherry on top of each square before serving. A gentle dusting of powdered sugar or a few toasted almonds can also add elegance, giving your Chocolate & Cherry Delight a gourmet flair straight from your own kitchen.

Side Dishes

Since this dessert is rich and luscious, it pairs well with lighter options. Offer a medley of fresh berries or a crisp fruit salad alongside to contrast the creaminess, or serve with a hot cup of coffee or strong black tea. These little touches round out your dessert table and let the flavors of Chocolate & Cherry Delight really stand out.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not try making individual servings in cute little jars or parfait glasses for parties? You can even layer the ingredients in mini-cups for a fun, handheld treat at gatherings. If you’re feeling artsy, use a piping bag to swirl the whipped topping and drizzle a bit of extra ganache just before sharing. No matter how you present it, Chocolate & Cherry Delight always looks as irresistible as it tastes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Chocolate & Cherry Delight into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, though chances are it won’t last that long once everyone gets a taste!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Chocolate & Cherry Delight for longer storage! Simply wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep their wonderful flavor and texture for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. But if you love a slightly melty ganache, let your serving rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes—it softens just enough for peak indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use a different pie filling instead of cherry?

Absolutely! Blueberry or strawberry pie filling work beautifully in this recipe and create their own classic variations of Chocolate & Cherry Delight. Use your favorite or whatever’s seasonal for a fun twist.

Is it necessary to bake the graham cracker crust?

Nope, it’s not required—the no-bake crust sets beautifully in the fridge. However, if you like an extra-firm base, you can bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then cool before adding the cream cheese layer.

Can I make Chocolate & Cherry Delight ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s even better when made a day in advance, as the flavors meld and the layers firm up for easy slicing. Just wait to add the final whipped topping until just before serving for the prettiest presentation.

What can I substitute for whipped topping?

If you prefer not to use store-bought whipped topping, homemade whipped cream (whipped to stiff peaks) works just as well. Sweeten it gently with powdered sugar to suit your taste.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap the regular graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or cookies, and you’ll have a gluten-free Chocolate & Cherry Delight everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a memorable treat that’s as easy to make as it is indulgent, Chocolate & Cherry Delight is your next must-try dessert. Every layer offers a new delight, and it’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for whenever you want to wow friends and family. Give it a go—I can’t wait for you to fall in love with it, too!

Chocolate & Cherry Delight Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible combination of chocolate and cherries with this delightful no-bake dessert. A creamy cream cheese layer, topped with cherry pie filling and a rich chocolate ganache, makes for a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar

Cream Cheese Layer:

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

Topping:

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

Chocolate Ganache:

1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream

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Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press firmly into a 9×9-inch baking dish to form a crust.
Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mix until combined. Fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth. Spread over crust.
Topping: Top with cherry pie filling, spread gently to cover.
Chocolate Ganache: Microwave chocolate chips and heavy cream in 30-second intervals until melted. Let cool slightly, then pour over cherry layer. Spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set. Top with remaining whipped topping before serving.

Notes

For a firmer crust, bake the graham layer at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes and cool before adding filling.
Try blueberry or strawberry pie filling as alternatives.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American