A timeless no-bake dessert featuring layers of buttery crust, creamy filling, and vibrant cherry topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or nostalgic comfort food.
Ingredients
- Crust:
1.5 cups crushed graham crackers (or shortbread cookies)
1/3 cup melted butter
2 tbsp granulated sugar - Filling:
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream (whipped to stiff peaks) - Topping:
21 oz canned cherry pie filling (or homemade compote)
Preparation
- Crust:
Mix crushed crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Press into a 9×9-inch pan. Chill for 15 minutes. - Filling:
Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped cream. Spread over crust. - Assembly:
Top with cherry filling. Refrigerate for 4+ hours. Slice and serve chilled.
Variations & Tips
- Gluten-free: Use almond flour crust.
- Lighter version: Substitute whipped coconut cream.
- Flavor boost: Add lemon zest to the filling or almond extract to the crust.
- Presentation: Garnish with dark chocolate shavings or mint leaves.
Food Storage Methods (Relevant to Classic Cherry Delight)
- Refrigeration
- Ideal for desserts with dairy/cream (4°C/40°F or below)
- Store in airtight containers to prevent odor absorption
- Shelf life: 3-4 days for cream-based desserts
- Freezing
- Remove cherry topping first (fruit becomes watery when thawed)
- Wrap crust and filling layers tightly in plastic wrap
- Maximum duration: 1 month
- Countertop Storage
- Only safe for ≤2 hours at room temperature (per USDA)
- Use chilled marble slabs to extend stability by 30 minutes
Digital Data Storage Methods
- Cloud Storage
- Encrypted platforms (e.g., AWS S3, Google Cloud)
- Version control for recipe iterations
- Physical Media
- SSD vs HDD: SSDs better for frequent recipe database access
- Optical discs (Blu-ray) for archival purposes
Inventory Management Systems
- FIFO Rotation
- Critical for commercial kitchens: label containers with preparation dates
- Applies to both ingredients and pre-made dessert components
- Smart Sensors
- IoT temperature monitors for refrigeration units
- Humidity controls for dry storage (e.g., graham crackers)
Specialized Food Preservation
| Method | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Sealing | Crust mixtures | Prevents oxidation/rancidity |
| Dehydration | Fruit garnishes | Maintains texture at 10% humidity |
| pH Control | Cherry compote | Target pH ≤4.6 for preservation |