Cherry Cheesecake Lush

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • No-Bake Convenience: Ideal for warm days or when you want a quick dessert without using the oven.
  • Layered Delight: Combines a crunchy cookie base, smooth cheesecake filling, and fruity cherry topping for a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Its appealing presentation and delicious taste make it a hit at parties and family dinners.
  • Versatile: Easily adaptable with different fruit toppings or crust variations to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Golden Oreo cookies
  • Unsalted butter, melted
  • Cream cheese, softened
  • Granulated sugar
  • Frozen whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
  • Cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix
  • Whole milk
  • Cherry pie filling
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Crust:

    • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
    • Crush the Golden Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor.
    • Mix the crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
    • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish to form an even layer.
    • Place the crust in the freezer for about 10 minutes to set.
  2. Cheesecake Layer:

    • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
    • Add granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined and creamy.
    • Fold in 1 cup of the thawed whipped topping until smooth.
    • Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
    • Return the dish to the freezer for another 10 minutes to firm up.
  3. Pudding Layer:

    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, approximately 2-3 minutes.
    • Gently fold in ½ cup of the whipped topping until well incorporated.
    • Spread this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer evenly.
    • Refrigerate the dish for about 30 minutes to allow the pudding layer to set.
  4. Cherry Topping:

    • Once the pudding layer is set, evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the top.
  5. Final Layer:

    • Spread the remaining whipped topping over the cherry layer, creating a smooth and even finish.
    • Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts if desired for added texture and flavor.
  6. Chill and Serve:

    • Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until all layers are firm and set.
    • Once chilled, slice into squares and serve.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Approximately 12
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chilling Time: At least 1-2 hours
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes (including active prep and chilling)

Variations

  • Fruit Toppings: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or apple pie filling for a different flavor profile.
  • Crust Options: Use graham cracker crumbs, vanilla wafers, or chocolate sandwich cookies instead of Golden Oreos for a unique twist.
  • Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts on top or replace them with chocolate shavings or additional cookie crumbs.
  • Homemade Whipped Cream: Replace frozen whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a homemade touch.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: While not recommended due to potential texture changes, if necessary, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

What is a lush dessert?

A lush dessert typically consists of layered components, including a crust (often made from cookies or graham crackers), a creamy filling, a pudding layer, and a topping such as whipped cream and fruit. It’s known for its rich texture and layered flavors.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, Cherry Cheesecake Lush can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, allowing it to chill overnight can enhance the flavors and ensure the layers are well set.

Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling can provide a fresher taste and allow you to control the sweetness. Simply substitute an equal amount of your homemade filling for the canned version.

Is there a substitute for cheesecake-flavored pudding mix?

If cheesecake-flavored pudding mix is unavailable, you can use

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Cherry Cheesecake Lush


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy cheesecake filling, tangy cherry topping, and a buttery cookie crust. Perfect for gatherings, this easy-to-make treat is a crowd favorite with its delightful blend of textures and flavors.


Ingredients

  • Crust:
    • 1 package (approx. 14 oz) Golden Oreo cookies, crushed
    • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • Cheesecake Layer:
    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
    • ¾ cup granulated sugar
    • 1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • Pudding Layer:
    • 2 packages (3.4 oz each) cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix
    • 3 cups cold whole milk
    • ½ cup frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • Topping:
    • 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
    • Remaining whipped topping from an 8 oz container
    • ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust:

    • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • Crush Golden Oreos into fine crumbs.
    • Mix with melted butter and press into the dish.
    • Freeze for 10 minutes to set.
  2. Cheesecake Layer:

    • Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
    • Fold in 1 cup whipped topping.
    • Spread over the crust and freeze for 10 minutes.
  3. Pudding Layer:

    • Whisk pudding mix with cold milk until thickened.
    • Fold in ½ cup whipped topping.
    • Spread over the cheesecake layer and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  4. Cherry Topping & Final Layer:

    • Spread cherry pie filling over the pudding layer.
    • Top with remaining whipped topping.
    • Sprinkle with nuts if using.
  5. Chill & Serve:

    • Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving.
    • Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

  • Substitute cheesecake pudding mix with vanilla pudding + extra 2 oz cream cheese.
  • Use graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or chocolate cookies for a crust variation.
  • Replace frozen whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
  • Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1-2 hours
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

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