Festive Cherry Cream Dream
Experience the joy of the holidays with this delightful dessert that is a cherished family tradition. Combining a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth and creamy cheese layer, all topped with luscious cherry pie filling and a light Cool Whip topping, this dish is beautifully festive. For a special touch, a splash of green food coloring can transform your Cool Whip into a vibrant holiday accent. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, potlucks, or any celebration where a sweet treat is required, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike!
12
Servings
316
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Graham cracker crumbs
2 cups (crushed)
Butter
1/2 cup (melted)
Cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Powdered sugar
2 cups (sifted)
Cherry pie filling
2 cans (21 ounces each) (ready to use)
Cool Whip
8 ounces (thawed)
Green food coloring
optional (for coloring the Cool Whip)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter with the graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
3
Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish to form a crust.
4
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
5
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
6
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
7
Pour the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it across evenly.
8
In a separate bowl, whip the Cool Whip with a few drops of green food coloring (if desired) until combined and evenly tinted.
9
Spread the colored Cool Whip over the cherry pie filling, covering it completely.
10
Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
Nutrition Information
18g
Fat
45g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Festive Cherry Cream Dream?
It is a layered holiday dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheese layer, cherry pie filling, and a festive green-tinted Cool Whip topping.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
What ingredients are needed for the crust?
You will need 2 cups of crushed graham cracker crumbs and 1/2 cup of melted butter.
At what temperature should I bake the graham cracker crust?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the crust need to bake?
Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes or until it is lightly golden.
Does the crust need to cool before adding the next layer?
Yes, allow the crust to cool completely before spreading the cream cheese mixture over it.
What are the components of the cream cheese layer?
The cream cheese layer consists of 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar.
How do I prepare the cream cheese layer?
Beat the softened cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
How much cherry pie filling is required?
The recipe calls for two 21-ounce cans of cherry pie filling.
What is the purpose of green food coloring in this recipe?
The green food coloring is used to tint the Cool Whip topping for a festive, holiday-themed look.
Is the green food coloring mandatory?
No, the green food coloring is optional and can be omitted if preferred.
What size baking dish should I use?
Use a 9 x 13 inch baking dish for this recipe.
How long should the dessert chill before serving?
Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set properly.
How many calories are in one serving of this dessert?
There are approximately 316 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 18g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 45g of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in a serving of Festive Cherry Cream Dream?
There are 3g of protein per serving.
Can I use real whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
While Cool Whip is recommended for stability, you can use stabilized whipped cream if you prefer.
Is it necessary to sift the powdered sugar?
Yes, sifting helps ensure the cream cheese layer is smooth and free of lumps.
Can I make this dessert a day in advance?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead as it needs time to chill and set in the refrigerator.
Should the Cool Whip be frozen or thawed?
The Cool Whip should be thawed before you fold in the food coloring and spread it on the dessert.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, with a simple baked crust and easy layered assembly, it is considered an easy recipe.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized as a Dessert.
Can I substitute cherry pie filling with another flavor?
Yes, you can use blueberry, strawberry, or any other fruit pie filling if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How should the butter be prepared for the crust?
The 1/2 cup of butter should be melted before mixing it with the graham cracker crumbs.
What texture should the cream cheese layer have?
The cream cheese layer should be smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
What occasions are best for this dessert?
It is ideal for Christmas gatherings, holiday potlucks, and family celebrations.
How many cans of cherry pie filling are used?
The recipe uses 2 cans of 21 ounces each.
How do I ensure the graham cracker crust is firm?
Press the crumb and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish before baking.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers covered and stored in the refrigerator.