Cherry Or Strawberry Delight
A creamy, fruity dessert featuring crushed pineapple and cherry or strawberry pie filling atop a graham cracker crust, perfect for family gatherings and summer events.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the crushed graham crackers, powdered sugar, and melted margarine to form the crust and set in the refrigerator for a while.
- Whip the package of Dream Whip until fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Combine the whipped Dream Whip with the cream cheese mixture.
- Fold in the crushed pineapple and pie filling.
- Spread the mixture over the crust and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer crust, consider refrigerating the mixed graham cracker base for at least 30 minutes before adding the filling. You can substitute the margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. This dessert pairs beautifully with Crayzee Cherry Pie for a delightful summer spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra touch. This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings alongside other refreshing treats. Consider serving it with a side of fresh berries or vanilla ice cream to enhance the flavors. It also makes a great addition to a potluck spread featuring American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crust's texture, avoid freezing as it may become soggy. When ready to serve, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly for the best flavor experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Or Strawberry Delight contains roughly 2348 calories, with 3g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries or strawberries instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries or strawberries for a more natural flavor. Simply chop them finely and mix them into the cream cheese mixture. You'll need to adjust the sweetness slightly, so taste and add sugar as needed.
Is it possible to make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives, such as crushed gluten-free cookies or oats mixed with coconut oil. Ensure that the other ingredients are also certified gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this dessert ahead of time?
You can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance. Assemble the dessert, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to add any toppings right before serving to keep them fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).