This torte features a graham cracker crust with a sweet cream cheese filling topped with a layer of whipped cream and crowned with a cherry topping flavored with almond extract.

Cherry Torte

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 (8-ounce) plus 1 (3-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup sifted powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup pecans, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 cups cherry pie filling
1/2 teaspoon almond extract

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter; press into a 11 x 7-inch baking pan.
2. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until blended and smooth. Spread over the crust and top with chopped pecans.
3. Whip cream until soft peaks form. Add vanilla and sugar; beat until well blended. Spread over the pecans. Stir together cherry pie filling and almond extract. Spoon over the whipped cream. Chill until served.

Makes 10 servings.