Sweet Cherry Yum-Yum Recipe Ideas for Summer Treats

Dessert enthusiasts swoon over this classic cherry yum-yum that blends creamy textures with sweet, tangy flavors.

Layers of graham cracker crust create a delightful foundation for the luscious filling.

Soft cream cheese melts seamlessly with whipped topping, creating a dreamy dessert experience.

Bright red cherries dot the surface, adding a burst of color and fruity freshness.

This no-bake treat comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for summer gatherings or spontaneous sweet cravings.

Rich, smooth, and utterly irresistible, this cherry yum-yum promises to be the star of any dessert table.

Prepare to fall in love with every single decadent bite.

Ingredients for Cherry Yum-Yum Dessert

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic base for a delightful dessert foundation.
• Pecans, Chopped: Nutty crunch for extra texture and flavor.
• Sugar: Sweet enhancer for the crust.
• Butter, Melted: Rich binding agent for the crust.

• Cream Cheese, Softened: Smooth and creamy foundation for the filling.
• Powdered Sugar: Silky sweetener that blends perfectly.
• Vanilla: Warm and aromatic flavor booster.
• Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy cloud of deliciousness.

• Cherry Pie Filling: Vibrant and sweet fruity layer.
• Pecans, Chopped: Crunchy garnish for final touch.
• Whipped Topping: Creamy final layer that adds extra richness.

How to Make Cherry Yum-Yum

Step 1: Create Crunchy Base

Warm your oven to 350°F.

Grab a mixing bowl and combine graham cracker crumbs, finely chopped pecans, and sugar.

Pour in melted butter and blend thoroughly.

Press this delightful mixture into a 9×13 baking dish.

Bake for 8 minutes until golden.

Allow the crust to cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Filling

Take a large mixing bowl and beat cream cheese until silky smooth.

Blend in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until beautifully creamy.

Gently fold in whipped topping, creating a luxurious texture.

Step 3: Layer With Deliciousness

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the cooled crust.

Generously pour cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer.

Top with remaining whipped topping, creating an elegant finish.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

Sprinkle finely chopped pecans across the surface for extra crunch.

Cover the dessert and refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 5: Serve And Enjoy

Cut into square portions.

Serve chilled and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight.

Tips for Layering Cherry Yum-Yum

• Use a food processor or rolling pin to create fine, even graham cracker crumbs for a uniform, crisp crust that holds together beautifully.
• Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling with easy spreadability.
• Allow the dessert to rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight, which helps flavors meld and creates a firmer, more sliceable texture.
• Swap canned cherry pie filling with fresh cherries or a homemade compote for a more vibrant, less sweet alternative that adds a gourmet touch.
• Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or ground nuts to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.

Storing Cherry Yum-Yum Right

• Store leftovers in an airtight container, keeping the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Avoid freezing as the whipped topping and cherry filling may separate and lose texture when thawed.
• Always serve directly from the refrigerator to maintain the creamy consistency and fresh taste.
• Enjoy within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture, as the crust can become slightly soggy over time.

What to Pair with Cherry Yum-Yum

• Enhance Cherry Flavor with Robust Red Wine: Select a bold, fruity red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that complements the sweet cherry notes and rich cream cheese texture.
• Match Creamy Texture with Smooth Coffee: Brew a medium-roast Colombian or Brazilian coffee with subtle caramel undertones that balance the dessert's sweetness and provide a smooth counterpoint.
• Elevate Dessert with Champagne Sparkle: Choose a slightly sweet Moscato or Prosecco to cut through the creamy layers and add elegant effervescence that lifts the cherry's bright flavor profile.
• Create Contrast with Almond Liqueur: Drizzle a small amount of Amaretto or almond-based liqueur alongside the dessert to enhance the nutty pecan undertones and add sophisticated depth.

Creative Twists on Cherry Yum-Yum

• Gluten-Free Delight: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour. Use gluten-free whipped topping and verify all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Vegan Cherry Treat: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Use coconut whipped cream instead of traditional whipped topping. Replace butter with coconut oil in the crust.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free cherry pie filling and replace powdered sugar with monk fruit sweetener. Choose a low-carb graham cracker substitute like crushed nuts or almond flour base.
• Chocolate Cherry Remix: Add cocoa powder to the crust mixture. Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top layer before chilling. Sprinkle extra chocolate shavings for enhanced flavor profile.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients in Cherry Yum-Yum?

The key ingredients include graham cracker crumbs, pecans, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, whipped topping, and cherry pie filling. These create a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors.

• Is this dessert complicated to make?

Not at all! Cherry Yum-Yum is a simple no-bake dessert with easy layering steps. The crust requires minimal baking, and the rest is just mixing and assembling ingredients.

• Can I substitute the cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use other pie fillings like blueberry or strawberry. The recipe is versatile and works well with different fruit toppings. Just choose a flavor you enjoy.

• How long will this dessert stay fresh?

When stored properly in the refrigerator with a tight cover, Cherry Yum-Yum stays fresh for 3-4 days. The layers remain delicious and creamy throughout this time.

What Makes Cherry Yum-Yum Irresistible

Whip Up Effortless Dessert: This Cherry Yum-Yum offers incredible simplicity for home bakers of all skill levels.

• Zero Baking Expertise Required: No complex techniques needed, perfect for beginners who want to create a delicious dessert without stress.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Treat: Combines classic flavors of cream cheese, cherries, and pecans that appeal to everyone from kids to grandparents.
• Prepare-Ahead Party Hero: Make this dessert in advance, allowing you to relax and enjoy gatherings without last-minute kitchen chaos. The refrigeration time means flavors meld beautifully, creating a dessert that tastes even better after resting.
• Budget-Friendly Indulgence: Uses affordable, readily available ingredients that transform into an impressive, restaurant-quality dessert without breaking the bank.

Cherry Yum-Yum Recipe

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4.7 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 38 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Homemade cherry yum-yum brings sweet nostalgia with layers of creamy pudding and crumbly graham cracker crust. Midwestern dessert perfection awaits when you crave something simple yet irresistibly delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cans (21 ounces each) cherry pie filling
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 2 containers (8 ounces each) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

Crust Ingredients:

• 2 cups (1/4 full-size crackers) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup salted sweet cream butter, melted and cooled

Sweetening and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped pecans (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Create a buttery, nutty foundation by blending graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans, and sugar with melted butter until thoroughly integrated.
2. Transfer the crumbly mixture into a 9×13 baking dish, pressing firmly to form an even base.
3. Bake the crust at 350°F for 8 minutes, allowing it to develop a golden, crisp texture.
4. Let the crust cool completely to room temperature, ensuring a stable foundation for subsequent layers.
5. Whip softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
6. Incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
7. Gently fold in one container of whipped topping, creating a luscious, airy filling.
8. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture in an even layer across the cooled crust.
9. Generously distribute cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, ensuring complete coverage.
10. Top the cherry layer with the remaining whipped topping, creating an elegant, smooth surface.
11. Sprinkle finely chopped pecans over the top for added crunch and visual appeal.
12. Refrigerate the dessert, covered, for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and set.
13. Slice into precise squares when thoroughly chilled and serve immediately for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

• Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for celiac-friendly version.
• Toast pecans briefly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra crunch to the crust.
• Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping to create a lighter, lower-calorie dessert without compromising taste.
• Experiment with different fruit fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry for seasonal variations and unique flavor combinations.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 284
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 182 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 32 mg