Why Make This Recipe
Apple Delight is an easy and delicious dessert that combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake, crunchy pecans, and sweet apple pie filling. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy night at home. With its layered texture and delightful taste, Apple Delight is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more!
How to Make Apple Delight
Ingredients:
- 1 package graham crackers (9 crackers)
- 1/2 cup pecans (chopped)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 16 ounces Cool Whip (divided)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 42 ounces apple pie filling
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers and chopped pecans until finely chopped.
- Add the melted butter and 1/4 cup sugar to the cracker mixture. Pulse a few times to combine.
- Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan to create an even layer on the bottom.
- Bake the crust for 8 minutes and allow it to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, vanilla extract, half of the Cool Whip (8 ounces), and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust.
- Carefully spread the apple pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Finally, spread the remaining Cool Whip on top of the apple pie filling.
- Refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
- Before serving, top with chopped pecans if desired.
How to Serve Apple Delight
Serve Apple Delight chilled, cut into squares. This dessert is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or additional pecans for extra flavor.
How to Store Apple Delight
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.
Tips to Make Apple Delight
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened well for easy mixing.
- For extra flavor, you can stir a pinch of cinnamon into the apple pie filling.
- Don’t rush the cooling step for the crust; it needs to be completely cool before adding the next layers.
Variation
You can use cherry or blueberry pie filling instead of apple if you want to change it up a bit.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Yes, you can certainly use your homemade apple pie filling instead of store-bought.
2. What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
You can whip heavy cream to stiff peaks and use it as a substitute for Cool Whip.
3. Can I freeze Apple Delight?
It is not recommended to freeze it as the texture may change upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Apple Delight
Equipment
- Food Processor
- 9×13-inch Pan
- Oven
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Crust
- 9 graham crackers
- 0.5 cup pecans chopped
- 0.25 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup butter melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 16 oz Cool Whip divided
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 42 oz apple pie filling
- 0.25 cup pecans chopped, optional topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers and chopped pecans until finely chopped.
- Add the melted butter and sugar to the mixture. Pulse a few times to combine.
- Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, vanilla, 8 oz of Cool Whip, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust.
- Carefully spread the apple pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the remaining Cool Whip on top.
- Refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
- Top with additional chopped pecans before serving, if desired.