Introduction
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of a layered blueberry dessert that blends creamy goodness with a crumbly graham cracker crust. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a special treat for family and friends. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
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
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 27 minutes (including refrigeration)
Yield: 12 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Crush the Graham Crackers
Crush the graham crackers until they are fine crumbs. This can be done using a food processor or by placing the crackers in a plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin.
Step 3: Mix the Crust Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted unsalted butter. Stir the mixture until the graham cracker crumbs are fully coated and evenly blended 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 crust.
Step 5: Bake the Crust
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the crust for about 7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In another large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the confectioners sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.
Step 7: Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold in half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped topping.
Step 8: Spread the Cream Cheese Layer
Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Step 9: Add Blueberry Pie Filling
Carefully pour and evenly spread the blueberry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even distribution.
Step 10: Top with Remaining Whipped Topping
Spread the remaining half of the whipped topping evenly over the blueberry pie filling layer.
Step 11: Garnish with Pecans
Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top layer of whipped topping, distributing them evenly for added texture and flavor.
Step 12: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 1-2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the layers to set properly before serving.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Customization
Feel free to substitute the blueberry pie filling with other fruit fillings such as cherry or strawberry based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert can be served as is or with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Cook techniques
Crushing Graham Crackers
To crush graham crackers effectively, you can use a food processor for a fine texture or place the crackers in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin for a coarser texture.
Making a Crust
Combine melted butter with crushed graham crackers and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish to create an even, solid crust that will hold together after baking.
Mixing Cream Cheese Filling
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. Beat it with confectioners sugar and vanilla extract until smooth for a creamy filling.
Folding in Whipped Topping
Gently fold half of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula to combine, being careful not to deflate the whipped topping to maintain a light texture.
Layering Ingredients
Spread each layer evenly, starting with the cream cheese mixture, followed by the blueberry pie filling, and finishing with the remaining whipped topping to create a balanced dessert.
Refrigerating
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly before serving.
FAQ
Can I substitute the graham crackers?
Yes, you can use crushed cookies such as digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers as a substitute for graham crackers.
How can I ensure my cream cheese is soft enough?
To soften cream cheese quickly, you can cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of blueberry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh blueberries, but you may need to modify the recipe to add sweetness and a thickener to mimic the filling texture.
How long will the dessert last in the refrigerator?
The dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
Can I add other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or leave them out altogether according to your preference.
Conclusion
This blueberry cream cheese dessert with a graham cracker crust is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and textures. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the sweet blueberry topping, while the crunch of pecans adds an extra layer of deliciousness. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that is sure to impress at any gathering.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cherry Delight
Substitute blueberry pie filling with cherry pie filling for a classic cherry cheesecake experience.
Chocolate Hazelnut Dream
Incorporate chocolate hazelnut spread in place of some whipped topping and sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top for a nutty twist.
Strawberry Shortcake Variation
Use strawberry pie filling instead of blueberry and add fresh sliced strawberries on top before serving.
Peanut Butter Bliss
Mix creamy peanut butter into the cream cheese layer for a rich and nutty flavor that pairs well with the blueberry topping.
Coconut Cream Paradise
Add shredded coconut to the cream cheese mixture and use coconut whipped topping to enhance the tropical flavor of the dessert.
Mixed Berry Medley
Combine different berry pie fillings such as raspberry and blackberry for a vibrant and flavorful dessert.
Mint Chocolate Chip Indulgence
Incorporate mint extract into the cream cheese layer and use chocolate chips in place of pecans for a refreshing twist.
