Cherry Cheesecake Lush (Full Detailed Recipe)

Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a no-bake layered dessert with a buttery crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, fluffy whipped topping, and sweet cherry pie filling.

Yield

• 12–15 servings

Preparation Time

• Prep: 25–30 minutes
• Chill: 4 hours minimum (overnight is best)

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups (200 g) graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
  • OR 1½ cups whipped topping

For the Cream Layer

• 2 packages (3.4 oz / 96 g each) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 3 cups (720 ml) cold milk
• 2 cups whipped topping

Topping

• 2 cans (21 oz / 595 g each) cherry pie filling
• Additional whipped topping for garnish (optional)
• Fresh cherries (optional)

Equipment

• 9 × 13 inch (23 × 33 cm) baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine:
   • Graham cracker crumbs
   • Melted butter
   • Sugar
2. Mix until all crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9 × 13-inch dish.
4. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes while preparing the filling.

Tip: Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even, compact crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Beat for 2–3 minutes until creamy.
4. Fold in the whipped cream (or whipped topping) gently.
5. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.

Tip: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.

Step 3: Make the Pudding Layer

1. In another bowl, whisk together:
   • Instant vanilla pudding mix
   • Cold milk
2. Whisk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
3. Fold in 2 cups whipped topping.
4. Spread over the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Add the Cherry Layer

1. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the pudding layer.
2. Spread gently with a spatula.

Step 5: Chill

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
3. For the best texture and flavor, chill overnight.

Optional Garnish

Before serving:

• Pipe whipped topping around the edges.
• Add fresh cherries on top.
• Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs for extra texture.

Storage

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Freezing is possible, but the texture of the pudding layer may change slightly after thawing.

Variations

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Lush

• Use chocolate graham crackers or chocolate cookie crumbs for the crust.
• Replace vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding.

Strawberry Cheesecake Lush

• Replace cherry pie filling with strawberry pie filling.

Oreo Cheesecake Lush

• Use crushed Oreo cookies for the crust.
• Add crushed Oreos between layers.

Nutrition (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 420–480
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Sugar: 32 g

This dessert is richest and most flavorful when made a day ahead, allowing the layers to fully set and the flavors to blend together.