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Family-Favorite Cherries in the Snow: Easy 20-Minute Dessert

Cherries in the Snow - featured image
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This creamy, fruity no-bake dessert layers sweetened cream cheese, a crunchy vanilla wafer crust, and glossy cherry pie filling. It comes together in about 20 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • Optional garnish: fresh mint leaves, extra whipped topping, chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Make the crust layer: Crush 1 1/2 cups of vanilla wafers or graham crackers into fine crumbs. In a small bowl, mix the crumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until it looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Set aside.
  2. Beat the cream cheese: In a medium mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through.
  3. Add the sugar and vanilla: Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat on low speed at first, then increase to medium and beat for another minute until combined and silky.
  4. Fold in the whipped topping: Add 1 1/2 cups of thawed whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold it in until no white streaks remain, about 30 seconds.
  5. Spread the cream cheese layer: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  6. Add the cherry topping: Open the can of cherry pie filling and spoon it gently over the cream cheese layer. Spread evenly without pressing down. If using almond extract, stir it into the pie filling before spooning.
  7. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  8. Garnish and serve: Before serving, add fresh mint leaves, a dollop of whipped topping, or chocolate shavings if desired. Cut into squares and serve cold.

Notes

Room temperature cream cheese is essential for a smooth texture. Do not overmix after adding whipped topping to keep the layer light and fluffy. Chilling for at least 4 hours is required for clean slices; overnight is best for flavor development. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers or vanilla wafers. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: cherries in the snow, no-bake dessert, cream cheese dessert, cherry dessert, easy dessert, family favorite, potluck dessert

Find it online: https://evabake.com/family-favorite-cherries-in-the-snow-easy-20-minute-dessert/