Apple Delight Recipe

Okay, so let’s be real for a second: there are apples, and then there’s Apple Delight. If you’ve never heard of it before, you’re seriously missing out on one of the easiest, most delicious apple desserts known to mankind (yes, I said it). It’s like your grandma’s apple pie met a creamy, dreamy dessert from the future and had a delicious little baby. Intrigued? You should be.

I’ve made this Apple Delight recipe more times than I care to admit—partly because it’s that good, and partly because people won’t stop asking me for it. Whether you’re dealing with picky eaters, potluck pressure, or just want to treat yo’ self (and you should), this recipe’s got your back.

What Even Is Apple Delight?

You know how some desserts are just overly complicated for no good reason? Yeah, this isn’t one of those. Apple Delight is a layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake-style middle, a spiced apple pie filling, and a whipped topping that’s basically clouds in food form.

TL;DR? It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This (Like, Seriously)

Let me break this down real quick—because once you know what’s in this, you’ll be halfway to the kitchen already:

• Super simple ingredients you probably already have.
• No baking required (unless you count the quick crust, and honestly, you can skip that if you’re feeling lazy).
• Make-ahead friendly—yup, this dessert loves the fridge.
• Taste? Like apple pie had a creamy, crunchy makeover. And yes, it’s as good as it sounds.

Ever wonder how to impress your family without actually trying too hard? Yeah… Apple Delight’s your answer. 😉

Ingredients: Keepin’ It Real

Here’s everything you’ll need. No fancy stuff—just classics that do their job very well.

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup sugar

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped topping (a.k.a. Cool Whip)

For the Apple Topping:

• 2 cups apple pie filling (store-bought or homemade—dealer’s choice)
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended)

For the Final Layer:

• 1 ½ cups whipped topping
• A sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a dash of cinnamon for garnish

FYI: You can totally customize this. Wanna go heavy on the cinnamon? Do it. Feel like making your own pie filling? Be my guest. This recipe doesn’t judge. 🙂

How to Make Apple Delight (Without Losing Your Mind)

This recipe is broken down into layers—literally and figuratively. Let’s do this one step at a time.

Step 1: Prep the Crust

• Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until it’s got that wet sand vibe.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan (or 8×8 if you want it thicker).
• Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F or just chill it in the fridge for a no-bake version. Up to you!

Pro Tip: I personally bake it—just 10 mins—for that toasty flavor. Totally worth the minimal effort.

Step 2: Make That Creamy Layer

• Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
• Fold in the whipped topping gently—don’t just go in there like you’re making mashed potatoes.
• Spread it evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Apple Pie Goodness

• Spoon your apple pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
• Sprinkle with a little cinnamon for that cozy, spicy kick.
• If the filling looks too chunky, give it a few chops with a knife to make it spread easier.

Ever tried this layer with caramel drizzle? You’re welcome.

Step 4: Top It Off

• Spread the remaining whipped topping over everything.
• Garnish with a handful of crushed graham crackers, cinnamon, or even a little caramel if you’re feelin’ fancy.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight if you’ve got the patience of a saint.
• Slice, serve, and enjoy the sweet, creamy, apple-y glory.

Make It Your Own (Because You’re the Boss)

Not into graham crackers? Wanna go rogue? I got you. Here are a few swaps and ideas to remix this beauty:

Crust Variations:

• Vanilla wafers – soft and sweet
• Gingersnaps – spicy and bold (perfect for fall)
• Oreo crust – do I even need to explain?

Apple Filling Alternatives:

• Fresh sautéed apples with cinnamon and brown sugar
• Caramel apple pie filling for an extra wow factor
• Pear or peach filling – yes, this works too, and it’s kinda magical

Topping Upgrades:

• A drizzle of salted caramel sauce
• A handful of toasted pecans or walnuts
• A sprinkle of crunchy granola for breakfast-dessert vibes

What to Serve with Apple Delight

Okay, I know this dessert could totally steal the show on its own, but here’s how you can go full superstar host:

• Coffee or hot apple cider – classic combo, no notes.
• Cinnamon ice cream – yes, that’s a thing, and it’s amazing.
• Whipped cream with a hint of bourbon – for when you’re feelin’ fancy.

Storing Apple Delight Like a Pro

So you’ve made it (congrats, btw), and now you’ve got leftovers? Here’s what to do:

• Fridge: Cover it and store for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the whole pan or individual slices. Just wrap them up tight and thaw in the fridge before serving.

IMO, it actually tastes better the next day. All the flavors just chill together and become besties overnight.

The Best Time to Make Apple Delight? Uh… Always.

This dessert isn’t picky about the season. Sure, it’s got fall vibes, but don’t let that box you in. Make it for:

• Thanksgiving (duh)
• Potlucks
• Random Tuesday nights
• Birthdays (seriously, people love this more than cake sometimes)
• Midnight cravings (been there)

Related Recipes

• Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe
• Marshmallow Icing Recipe
• Classic Peanut Brittle Recipe

Final Thoughts about Apple Delight

So… what are you waiting for? You’ve got the recipe, the inspo, and hopefully a fridge stocked with at least some of the ingredients.

Apple Delight is more than just a dessert—it’s a total comfort food vibe. It’s the kind of thing you bring to a gathering and everyone asks, “Who made this?!” You just smile, nod, and accept your new title as Dessert Royalty.

And hey, if you make it and fall in love like I did? Don’t say I didn’t warn you. 😉

Now go grab those apples and get delightin’.