No-Bake Cherry Pie: A Simple and Sweet Summer Treat

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Creamy Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and light. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until the mixture is well combined and creamy.

   • Tip: For an extra burst of vanilla flavor, use a vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract. Scrape the seeds from the pod and add them to the cream cheese mixture along with the pod itself. Remove the pod before folding in the whipped topping.

2. Folding in the Fun:

   • Add the pure vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and beat until just combined.

   • Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped topping and make the filling dense.

3. Assembling the Pie:

   • Pour the creamy mixture into the premade graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly and smooth out the top.

   • Gently spread the remaining whipped topping over the cream cheese layer. Create a nice, even layer.

4. Cherry on Top:

   • Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the whipped topping layer. You can arrange the cherries in a decorative pattern for a more visually appealing pie (optional).

5. Setting the Stage:

   • Cover the entire pie with plastic wrap to prevent air exposure and any drying out. Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set and the crust is softened. Ideally, leave it overnight for the best results.

6. Serving Time!

   • Take the No-Bake Cherry Pie out of the refrigerator and slice it into wedges for serving. Enjoy this delicious and refreshing dessert!