1. Add the butter to a medium bowl.  Microwave for 30 seconds or until melted.  Add the graham cracker crumbs and sugar and mix well to combine.  Pat the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a sprayed 8 x 8 baking dish.  Set aside.

FILLING

1. Add the cream cheese to a large bowl.  Mix with a mixer until the cream cheese of smooth and free of any lumps.  Add the powdered sugar and vanilla and mix well.  Add the cool whip and mix until the cool whip and cream cheese are combined, but don’t overmix.
2. Spread the filling evenly over the graham cracker crust, using a spoon or offset spatula.  Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top and carefully spread it evenly over the filling.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.  I like to leave it overnight.
4. Refrigerate leftovers.

NOTES

• Tip from reader Jody…This is a great recipe. To remove easily, put hot water in the sink. Just enough so the bottom and a tiny bit of the sides of the pan are covered. Hold for under a minute and that will release the crust and it came out of the pan and cut wonderfully.  Make sure the water is very hot.”