Irresistible Cherry Yum Yum Recipe

Looking for a dessert that’s creamy, fruity, and effortlessly delicious? The Cherry Yum Yum is a no-bake, layered treat that combines the tangy richness of cheesecake with the sweet-tart burst of cherry pie filling, all nestled on a buttery crust. This iconic Southern dessert is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this easy recipe will have you whipping up a delectable dessert in no time. This article will explore everything you need to know about making Cherry YumRMS, from ingredients and preparation to storage tips and variations, ensuring your dessert is a hit every time.

What Is Cherry Yum Yum Made Of?

Cherry Yum Yum is a layered dessert with three key components: a crunchy crust, a creamy filling, and a fruity topping. Here’s a breakdown of the typical ingredients:

• Crust: Graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sometimes sugar or chopped nuts (like pecans) for added crunch.
• Creamy Filling: Cream cheese, whipped topping (like Cool Whip or Dream Whip), powdered sugar, and vanilla extract for sweetness and depth.
• Cherry Topping: Canned cherry pie filling is the star, providing a vibrant, sweet-tart layer.
• Optional Add-Ins: Some recipes include almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor or sweetened condensed milk for extra richness.

These simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing, with a medley of textures—crisp, creamy, and juicy—that make every bite irresistible.

Is Cherry Yum Yum a Southern Dessert?

Yes, Cherry Yum Yum is widely regarded as a Southern dessert, deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the American South. Often served at church suppers, potlucks, and holiday gatherings, it’s a nostalgic treat that evokes memories of family recipes passed down through generations. Its popularity in the South stems from its simplicity, affordability, and ability to feed a crowd. The dessert’s no-bake nature (or minimal baking for the crust) also makes it ideal for hot Southern summers when turning on the oven is less appealing. Known by other names like Cherry Delight or Cherry Lush, this dessert’s charm lies in its versatility and crowd-pleasing flavor, making it a staple in Southern kitchens.

How to Make Cherry Yum Yum?

Making Cherry Yum Yum is a breeze, requiring minimal effort and no advanced baking skills. Below is a step-by-step guide to crafting this delicious dessert:

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 sheets)
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
• For the Creamy Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• For the Topping:
  • 2 (21 oz) cans cherry pie filling
  • ½ tsp almond extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and pecans (if using). Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the mixture for topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish. Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool completely.
2. Make the Creamy Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Layers: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Carefully spread the cherry pie filling over the cream layer, ensuring an even distribution. If using almond extract, stir it into the pie filling beforehand. Top with the remaining cream cheese mixture, spreading it smoothly.
4. Add the Finishing Touch: Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker crumbs over the top for a decorative crunch. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Slice into squares and serve chilled. Garnish with extra cherries or whipped cream if desired.

This recipe yields about 12 servings, perfect for sharing at gatherings or savoring over a few days.

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How to Make No-Bake Cherry Yum Yum?

For a completely no-bake Cherry Yum Yum, skip the oven entirely by preparing the crust without baking. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and optional pecans as described above, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Place the dish in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set the crust before adding the creamy filling and cherry topping. The rest of the assembly follows the same steps, making this version ideal for hot days or when you’re short on time. The no-bake crust is slightly softer but equally delicious.

Can You Use Fresh Cherries for Cherry Yum Yum?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries for Cherry Yum Yum, though it requires extra effort to achieve the same consistency as canned pie filling. Fresh cherries, especially tart varieties like Montmorency, add a vibrant, homemade flavor. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Pit and Cook: Wash and pit 5 cups of fresh cherries (a cherry pitter is handy). In a saucepan, combine cherries with ¼ cup water and ½ cup sugar. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the cherries release their juices and soften.
2. Thicken the Filling: Make a slurry with 2 tablespoons cornstarch and ¼ cup cold water. Stir into the cherry mixture and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Let cool completely before using.
3. Substitute: Use this homemade filling in place of canned cherry pie filling in the recipe.

Fresh cherries offer a brighter, less processed taste, but canned filling is a convenient shortcut that doesn’t compromise flavor.

What Crust Is Best for Cherry Yum Yum?

The best crust for Cherry Yum Yum depends on your taste and dietary needs, but the classic choice is a graham cracker crust for its buttery, slightly sweet flavor and sturdy texture. Here are some popular options:

• Graham Cracker Crust: Standard and versatile, it pairs perfectly with the creamy and cherry layers. Add pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Golden Oreo Crust: For a sweeter, vanilla-forward twist, use crushed Golden Oreos instead of graham crackers.
• Vanilla Wafer Crust: Offers a delicate, buttery flavor that complements the cherries.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for a gluten-free dessert.

For a baked crust, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to set. For no-bake, chill the crust to firm it up. Each crust adds a unique flair, so experiment to find your favorite.

Can You Make Cherry Yum Yum Without Cream Cheese?

While cream cheese is a hallmark of Cherry Yum Yum’s rich filling, you can make it without cream cheese using alternatives:

• Whipped Cream Base: Use 2 cups of heavy whipping cream whipped with ¼ cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract. This creates a lighter, less tangy filling.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Combine 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk with whipped cream for a sweet, creamy layer. Add lemon juice for a slight tang.
• Greek Yogurt: Substitute cream cheese with full-fat Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-rich option.

These alternatives alter the flavor and texture slightly but maintain the dessert’s creamy essence. Adjust sweetness to taste, as some substitutes are less sweet than cream cheese.

How Long Does Cherry Yum Yum Last in the Fridge?

Cherry Yum Yum lasts in the fridge for about 3-5 days when stored properly. Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer slices to an airtight container to maintain freshness. The creamy layers and cherry topping may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal texture. Always check for signs of spoilage, such as an off odor or mold, before consuming leftovers.

Can You Freeze Cherry Yum Yum?

Yes, you can freeze Cherry Yum Yum, though freezing may slightly affect the texture of the creamy layers. To freeze:

1. Assemble Without Topping: Prepare the dessert up to the cream cheese layers, but hold off on adding the cherry pie filling and final crumb topping.
2. Wrap Tightly: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
3. Freeze: Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Thaw and Finish: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then add the cherry pie filling and reserved crumbs before serving.

If freezing the fully assembled dessert, note that the cherry topping may become slightly watery upon thawing. For best results, freeze only the crust and cream layers.

Can You Make Cherry Yum Yum in Advance?

Absolutely, Cherry Yum Yum is an excellent make-ahead dessert! In fact, it benefits from chilling for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance:

• Assemble the dessert as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate.
• If making the crust ahead, prepare and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before adding the filling.
• Add the cherry topping and final crumbs just before serving for maximum freshness.

This make-ahead option makes Cherry Yum Yum perfect for busy holidays or events, saving you time on the day of serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx. 12 Servings)

• Calories: 370 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 23g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

Conclusion

The Cherry Yum Yum recipe is a timeless Southern dessert that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Its buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cream cheese filling, and sweet-tart cherry topping make it a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe, opt for a no-bake version, or experiment with fresh cherries or alternative crusts, this dessert is sure to impress. Plus, its make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature makes it a practical choice for busy schedules. Try this recipe for your next gathering, and watch it become a new family favorite!

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