Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a no-bake masterpiece, combining layers of buttery Oreo crust, luscious cream cheese filling, velvety cheesecake pudding, sweet cherry topping, and airy whipped cream. This dessert is not just a feast for the eyes but also a decadent treat for the taste buds, perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence for yourself! Each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors that’s sure to delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cherry Cheesecake Lush is the ultimate no-bake dessert for any occasion! This luscious, layered treat features a golden Oreo crust, creamy cheesecake filling, rich cheesecake pudding, tangy cherry pie topping, and a fluffy whipped cream finish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines crunchy, creamy, sweet, and tart elements into every bite. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make—no oven required. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply satisfying a weeknight sweet tooth, this dessert is guaranteed to impress!
Key Ingredients
Golden Oreos: The base of this dessert, these cookies create a buttery, sweet crust with a perfect crunch.
Salted Butter: Adds richness to the crust while balancing the sweetness.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese forms the tangy, creamy foundation of the cheesecake layer.
White Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer for that signature cheesecake flavor.
Frozen Whipped Topping (Thawed): This light and airy topping is used throughout to add volume and creaminess to the layers.
Cheesecake Flavored Instant Pudding Mix: Ensures the pudding layer is thick, creamy, and bursting with cheesecake flavor.
Whole Milk: Combines with the pudding mix to create a smooth, velvety consistency.
Cherry Pie Filling: A tangy and colorful topping that complements the creamy layers below.
Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor to the whipped topping.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Crust
Prepare the Baking Dish: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Crush the Cookies: Use a food processor to crush the golden Oreos into fine crumbs.
Combine Crumbs and Butter: Add melted butter to the crumbs and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Form the Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Use a spoon or flat object to compact the crust.
Set the Crust: Place the crust in the freezer for 10 minutes.
Making the Cream Cheese Layer
Mix Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese, ¾ cup sugar, and 1 cup whipped topping until smooth.
Spread Over Crust: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust with a spatula.
Firm Up the Layer: Freeze for another 10 minutes.
Preparing the Pudding Layer
Mix Pudding: Whisk together 2 packages of cheesecake pudding mix, 3 cups milk, and ½ cup whipped topping until thickened (2-3 minutes).
Layer the Pudding: Spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer evenly.
Chill: Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
Adding the Cherry Pie Filling
Add Cherry Filling: Gently spread the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer, ensuring an even layer.
Finishing the Dessert
Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the cherry filling.
Sprinkle with Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the whipped topping.
Chilling and Serving
Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for 1-2 hours to allow layers to set.
Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the layered flavors and textures!
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Cheesecake Lush pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:
Hot Beverages: A cup of coffee or tea is a perfect match for the creamy, sweet layers.
Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Cocktails: Complement this dessert with a sparkling rosé or a fruity sangria for festive gatherings.
For an added decorative touch, garnish each slice with a maraschino cherry or a sprinkle of crushed golden Oreos before serving.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the layers fresh and the crust crisp.
Freezing: Although freezing is not recommended for long-term storage, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 1 week. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare this dessert up to 24 hours in advance to save time on the day of your event. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight!
Variations
Berry Bliss: Swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry pie filling for a fruity twist.
Tropical Delight: Use crushed graham crackers for the crust and layer with pineapple or mango pie filling.
Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts and add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra decadence.
Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free pudding mix, reduced-sugar whipped topping, and a light cherry filling for a healthier version.
Cookie Crust Swap: Try chocolate sandwich cookies or graham crackers instead of golden Oreos for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Cherry Cheesecake Lush is the epitome of an easy, no-fuss dessert that delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction. Whether you customize it with your favorite fruits, make it ahead for a party, or enjoy it as a weekend treat, this dessert is always a hit. With its vibrant layers and irresistible taste, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Go ahead and indulge—you deserve it!
Cherry Cheesecake Lush
Ingredients
- 1 package golden Oreos 14 oz, crushed in a food processor
- 1/3 cup salted butter melted
- 1 tbsp butter for preparing the pan
- 8 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 16 oz frozen whipped topping thawed, divided use
- 2 packages cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix small boxes
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cans cherry pie filling large cans
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for topping
Instructions
- Butter a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Use a food processor to crush the golden Oreos into fine crumbs. Combine the crumbs with melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish and compact with a spoon or flat object. Place the crust in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.
- In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese, white sugar, and 1 cup whipped topping until smooth. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust with a spatula. Freeze for another 10 minutes to firm up.
- Whisk together the cheesecake pudding mix, whole milk, and 1/2 cup whipped topping until thickened (2-3 minutes). Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
- Gently spread the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer, ensuring an even layer.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the cherry filling. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts evenly over the whipped topping for added crunch.
- Refrigerate the dessert for 1-2 hours to allow layers to set. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the layered flavors and textures!
