Introduction
This delightful No-Bake Peach Cream Cheese Dessert combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and peach pie filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat, this dessert is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups graham crackers, crushed
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 16 ounces whipped topping, divided
– 2 (21-ounce) cans peach pie filling
– ⅓ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings
This no-bake dessert is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. The creamy filling complements the sweet, juicy peach topping, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor for quick results or place the crackers in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Step 3: Combine Crust Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted unsalted butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is well combined.
Step 4: Press the Crust Mixture
Take the crust mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use your hands or the back of a spatula to create an even layer.
Step 5: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until it is fully incorporated and the texture is light and fluffy.
Step 8: Spread Cream Cheese Layer
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust with a spatula, smoothing out the surface.
Step 9: Add Peach Pie Filling
Pour the peach pie filling over the cream cheese layer and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
Step 10: Top with Remaining Whipped Topping
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the peach pie filling layer, ensuring it covers the filling completely.
Step 11: Garnish (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the whipped topping for added texture and flavor.
Step 12: Chill Before Serving
Place the dessert in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best results.
Step 13: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice the dessert into squares and serve to enjoy.
Notes
Tip for Cream Cheese
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture in the final product.
Whipped Topping Alternatives
If preferred, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping for a fresher taste.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. The dessert is best enjoyed within a few days.
Cook techniques
Crushing Graham Crackers
To achieve fine graham cracker crumbs, use a food processor or place the crackers in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you have a uniform texture.
Preparing the Crust
Combine the crushed graham crackers with melted butter until the mixture holds together when pressed. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to create a solid crust.
Baking the Crust
Bake the prepared crust in a preheated oven at 350°F for 7 minutes to set it. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling layers.
Mixing Cream Cheese Filling
Beat softened cream cheese with confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This ensures the filling has a rich and velvety texture.
Folding in Whipped Topping
Gently fold half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. This helps keep the filling light and airy without deflating the whipped cream.
Layering the Filling
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, followed by pouring and spreading the peach pie filling, and then topping with the remaining whipped topping for a balanced dessert.
Chilling
Chill the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to firm up for easy slicing.
FAQ
Can I use a different fruit filling instead of peach?
Yes, you can substitute with other fruit fillings such as cherry, blueberry, or apple according to your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Absolutely! This dessert is ideal for make-ahead as it benefits from chilling time. Prepare it a day ahead for the best results.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Yes, gluten-free graham crackers can be used as a substitute to make a gluten-free crust.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you prefer not to use pecans, you can skip them or replace them with other nuts like walnuts, or even use crushed cookies for added texture.
Conclusion
This delightful peach cream cheese dessert is not only easy to prepare but also offers a refreshing combination of creamy and fruity flavors. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and luscious whipped topping, it’s an ideal treat for any occasion. The addition of pecans adds a nice texture and nutty flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Blueberry Cream Cheese Delight
Swap out the peach filling for blueberry pie filling for a delicious twist, incorporating fresh blueberries for added texture.
Chocolate Hazelnut Cream Cheese Bars
Use chocolate graham crackers for the crust and layer it with a mixture of cream cheese, Nutella, and whipped topping, finishing with crushed hazelnuts on top.
Lemon Berry Cheesecake
Replace peach filling with a mix of lemon curd and assorted berries, providing a zesty and colorful dessert option.
Caramel Apple Crunch Dessert
Use apple pie filling along with caramel sauce drizzled over the whipped topping for a comforting fall-inspired treat.
Pineapple Coconut Cream Bar
Substitute peach filling with crushed pineapple and add shredded coconut to the cream cheese mixture for a tropical twist.
