Indulge in the heavenly combination of sweet cherries and creamy filling with this delicious cherry dessert recipe. The crust provides a crunchy base, while the luscious filling adds a creamy texture. Topped with fresh cherries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh cherries for garnish
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- In a saucepan, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in the water and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Boil for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is glossy and thick.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cherry filling cool for a few minutes.
- Fold in the pitted cherries into the cooled cherry filling mixture.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the cherry filling evenly over the cooled crust, then spread the whipped cream over the cherry filling.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh cherries and dust with powdered sugar.
Interesting Facts
Cherries are packed with antioxidants and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Graham crackers were initially developed as a way to reduce sexual desire by their creator, Sylvester Graham.
Graham cracker crumbs can be used as a substitution for bread crumbs in various recipes.