Here’s the full recipe for Cherry Yum Yum:
Cherry Yum Yum
Ingredients:
For The Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups (14 full-size crackers) graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup salted sweet cream butter, melted and cooled
For The Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 (8-ounce) containers whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1¼ cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Other Ingredients:
- 2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped pecans (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, chopped pecans, and sugar.
- Add melted butter and mix until well combined.
- Press this mixture into a 9×13 baking dish and bake for 8 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until creamy.
- Fold in one container of whipped topping.
3. Assemble the Layers:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Top with cherry pie filling.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the cherry layer.
4. Garnish and Chill:
- Sprinkle the top with finely chopped pecans.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set.
5. Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 8 minutes | Chill Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 28 minutes Calories: 402 kcal per serving | Servings: 15 servings
As for the most popular questions and their answers related to Cherry Yum Yum:
- Can I use a different type of crust?
- Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with a pre-made pie crust or a shortbread crust if you prefer.
- Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
- Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cherries, you can pit and slice them to use as a topping instead of the canned cherry pie filling.
- How long does Cherry Yum Yum last in the refrigerator?
- Cherry Yum Yum can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, tightly covered or wrapped in plastic wrap.
- Can I freeze Cherry Yum Yum?
- While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze Cherry Yum Yum for up to 1-2 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Can I use a different type of fruit pie filling?
- Yes, you can customize this dessert by using different fruit pie fillings such as blueberry, strawberry, or peach, depending on your preference.
- Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
- Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping if you prefer. Just ensure it’s stiff enough to hold its shape.
- Can I omit the nuts for allergies?
- Yes, you can omit the nuts or substitute them with crushed cookies or granola for added texture if you have nut allergies.
- Can I use reduced-fat or fat-free cream cheese and whipped topping?
- Yes, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free versions of cream cheese and whipped topping to lighten up the dessert if desired.
- Do I have to bake the crust?
- Baking the crust helps it set and gives it a firmer texture, but you can skip this step if you prefer a softer crust.
- Can I add other toppings?
- Yes, you can customize Cherry Yum Yum by adding additional toppings such as chocolate shavings, toasted coconut, or sliced almonds.
- What’s the difference between Cherry Yum Yum and Cherry Delight?
- While they’re similar, Cherry Yum Yum typically has a graham cracker crust and uses cream cheese as a base, while Cherry Delight often uses a pretzel crust and a cream cheese or whipped topping layer.
- Can I make Cherry Yum Yum ahead of time?
- Yes, Cherry Yum Yum can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Store leftover Cherry Yum Yum covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
- Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
- Yes, you can use freshly whipped cream as a substitute for whipped topping if you prefer.
- Can I use different flavors of pie filling?
- Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of pie filling such as blueberry, apple, or peach to create variations of Cherry Yum Yum.
- Can I make Cherry Yum Yum in individual servings?
- Yes, you can assemble Cherry Yum Yum in individual serving dishes or cups for a more elegant presentation.
- Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?
- While cream cheese is traditional, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as mascarpone or ricotta for a unique twist.
- Can I add additional flavorings to the cream cheese filling?
- Yes, you can customize the cream cheese filling by adding flavorings such as almond extract, lemon zest, or cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of powdered sugar?
- Yes, you can substitute powdered sugar with granulated sugar or a sugar alternative such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener if desired.
- Can I serve Cherry Yum Yum warm?
- While Cherry Yum Yum is typically served chilled, you can serve it warm if you prefer by heating individual servings in the microwave for a few seconds.
To achieve the perfect Cherry Yum Yum, here are some secrets to keep in mind:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially for the cream cheese, whipped topping, and cherry pie filling. Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor and texture of your dessert.
- Balance Sweetness: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese filling according to your taste preferences. You can add a little more or less sugar to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness.
- Proper Chilling: Allow the Cherry Yum Yum to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving. This helps set the layers and allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious dessert.
- Layering Technique: When assembling the layers, spread each component evenly over the previous layer to ensure a uniform distribution of flavors throughout the dessert.
- Garnish with Pecans: Finely chopped pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the Cherry Yum Yum. Be generous with the pecan garnish for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture without any lumps.
- Thorough Mixing: Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until creamy and smooth. Proper mixing ensures that the filling is well combined and free of any lumps.
- Even Crust Distribution: Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly into the bottom of the baking dish to create a solid base for the Cherry Yum Yum. This prevents the crust from crumbling when slicing.
- Fresh Whipped Topping: If using homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping, make sure to whip it to stiff peaks for stability and texture.
- Variation with Toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as chocolate shavings, toasted coconut, or sliced almonds to add extra flavor and visual appeal to your Cherry Yum Yum.
By following these secrets, you can create a Cherry Yum Yum that is perfectly balanced in flavor, texture, and presentation, sure to impress your family and friends.
Absolutely! Here are some tips to elevate your Cherry Yum Yum and make it even more delightful:
- Fresh Cherry Topping: If possible, use fresh cherries to make your cherry pie filling. Fresh cherries will add a burst of vibrant flavor and natural sweetness to your dessert.
- Infuse Flavors: Consider infusing the cream cheese filling with additional flavors like lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist that complements the cherry flavor.
- Layered Texture: Add layers of texture by incorporating ingredients like crushed graham crackers, chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds), or toasted coconut between the cream cheese and cherry layers.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of your Cherry Yum Yum before serving for a decadent finishing touch. Dark chocolate complements the sweetness of the cherries beautifully.
- Add a Crumble Topping: Create a crunchy crumble topping by mixing together oats, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle the crumble over the cherry layer before adding the whipped topping for extra texture and flavor.
- Decorative Garnishes: Use fresh cherries, mint leaves, or edible flowers to garnish the top of your Cherry Yum Yum for a visually stunning presentation.
- Individual Servings: Instead of serving the Cherry Yum Yum in a large baking dish, consider assembling it in individual serving cups or glasses for an elegant presentation.
- Layered Parfait: Create a layered parfait by alternating the cream cheese filling, cherry pie filling, and whipped topping in individual glasses or jars. This makes for a visually appealing dessert that’s easy to serve.
- Seasonal Variations: Experiment with different fruit fillings based on the season. Try using fresh berries, peaches, or strawberries in place of cherries for a seasonal twist on the classic recipe.
- Personalized Touch: Customize your Cherry Yum Yum by adding personal touches like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or cookie crumbs to reflect your own taste preferences and creativity.
With these tips, you can take your Cherry Yum Yum to the next level and create a dessert that’s not only delightful but also memorable and irresistible.