Apple Delight with Cream Cheese, Graham Cracker Crust, and Pecans Recipe
Apple Delight is a creamy, crunchy, and sweet dessert featuring layers of graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, fluffy Cool Whip, and tender apple pie filling topped with crunchy pecans. This no-bake treat combines classic fall flavors with a smooth and airy texture, perfect for an easy and impressive dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 Tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 7 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 ounce)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container Cool Whip, thawed, divided (16 ounce)
- 2 cans apple pie filling (21 ounce each)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until all crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to create an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in half of the thawed Cool Whip until fully incorporated, resulting in a light and fluffy filling.
- Assemble the layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Next, spoon the apple pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, spreading gently to cover completely. Top the apples with the remaining Cool Whip, spreading it smoothly for the top layer.
- Add the finishing touch: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top of the dessert for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Return the dish to the refrigerator to chill and set for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker crust, add an extra 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs and 1 tablespoon butter.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Chilling overnight yields the best texture and flavor melding.
- Can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts for nut allergies.
- Use homemade apple pie filling for a fresher taste if desired.
Keywords: apple dessert, no-bake dessert, apple delight, cream cheese dessert, easy fall dessert, graham cracker crust
