Cherry Delight
Ingredients:
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12-14 graham crackers)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
For the Cherry Topping:
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted (or one 21-ounce can of cherry pie filling)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup water or cherry juice
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and smooth.
Prepare the Cherry Topping:
If using fresh or frozen cherries: In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and water (or cherry juice). Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Allow to cool to room temperature before using.
If using canned cherry pie filling: Simply open the can and stir the filling to smooth out any lumps.
Assemble the Dessert:
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