Introduction
This delightful dessert combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of blueberry pie filling, all layered atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this no-bake layered treat is as easy to make as it is delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups graham crackers, crushed
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
½ cup confectioners sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
16 ounces whipped topping, divided
2 (21-ounce) cans blueberry pie filling
⅓ cup chopped pecans
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 1-2 hours chilling time (or overnight)
Yield: 12 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Graham Crackers
Crush the graham crackers until they are fine crumbs. You can do this by using a food processor for convenience or by placing the crackers in a plastic bag and using a rolling pin to crush them manually.
Step 3: Mix the Graham Cracker Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the graham crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
Step 4: Form the Crust
Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid crust layer.
Step 5: Bake the Crust
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the crust for about 7 minutes. After baking, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, confectioners sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Add Whipped Topping
Gently fold in half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until it is fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy consistency.
Step 8: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture
Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing it out with a spatula for an even layer.
Step 9: Layer Blueberry Pie Filling
Open the cans of blueberry pie filling and evenly spread it over the cream cheese layer, ensuring that it covers the entire surface.
Step 10: Add Remaining Whipped Topping
Use the remaining whipped topping to create a final layer over the blueberry filling, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 11: Garnish with Pecans
Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the whipped topping layer, adding a nice crunch to the dessert.
Step 12: Chill Before Serving
Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or foil and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or ideally overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Notes
Tip for Grahams
For the best texture, use a food processor for crushing the graham crackers, but ensure they reach a fine crumb stage without large chunks.
Checking Cream Cheese
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
Pecan Substitutes
If you prefer, you can substitute the chopped pecans with walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. The dessert should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Cook techniques
Crushing Ingredients
To crush graham crackers, you can use a food processor for a fine consistency or place them in a plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin for a coarser texture.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine melted butter with crushed graham crackers thoroughly to ensure an even distribution, which helps form a sturdy crust when pressed into the baking dish.
Baking the Crust
Bake the graham cracker crust for 7 minutes at 350℉ to set it slightly, giving it a firm base for the filling. Allow it to cool completely before adding any layers on top.
Beating Cream Cheese
Soften cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing. Beat together with confectioners sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Folding in Whipped Topping
When folding in whipped topping, use a spatula to gently incorporate it without deflating the mixture, maintaining the light and airy texture needed for the filling.
Layering Ingredients
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust before adding blueberry pie filling to ensure balanced flavor in every bite.
Chilling the Dessert
Chill the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight, which helps the layers set properly and enhances the flavors.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pie filling?
Yes, you can substitute blueberry pie filling with other flavors such as cherry, peach, or apple, depending on your preference.
Is it necessary to chill the dessert?
Chilling is recommended to help the layers set and improve the overall taste and texture, making it easier to slice when serving.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly, making it less creamy compared to full-fat versions.
How long can this dessert be stored in the refrigerator?
The dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or a lid to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you have nut allergies, you can omit the pecans entirely or use alternative toppings such as crushed graham crackers or chocolate shavings.
Conclusion
This delightful blueberry cream cheese dessert is a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and tangy flavors. The graham cracker crust offers a wonderful crunch that complements the smooth cream cheese filling and the juicy blueberry topping. Ideal for gatherings or as a sweet treat at home, it’s simple to prepare and will impress family and friends alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try adding sliced bananas or strawberries into the cream cheese layer for a fruity twist.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a chocolate lover’s delight, substitute half of the blueberry pie filling with chocolate pudding.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate some crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers for a cookies and cream variation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped topping for an added layer of sweetness.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Replace pecans with toasted almonds or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
