Cherry Cheesecake Lush

A delicious no-bake dessert with a buttery cookie crust, creamy cheesecake layer, sweet cherry pie filling, and fluffy whipped topping. This easy layered dessert is rich, refreshing, and perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings.

🍒 Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2½ cups crushed graham crackers
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whipped topping, thawed

For the Pudding Layer

• 1 package (3.4 oz / 96 g) instant cheesecake or vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk

For the Topping

• 1 can (21 oz / 595 g) cherry pie filling
• 2 cups whipped topping, thawed
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional
• Fresh cherries, optional

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Crust

In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar.

Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to help the crust set.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer

Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

Add the vanilla and mix well.

Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until light and fluffy.

Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

3. Prepare the Pudding Layer

Whisk the instant pudding mix with the cold milk for approximately 2 minutes, until thickened.

Let it stand for another minute or two.

Spread the pudding evenly over the cheesecake layer.

4. Add the Cherry Layer

Spoon the cherry pie filling over the pudding.

Carefully spread it into an even layer without disturbing the pudding underneath.

5. Add the Whipped Topping

Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the cherries.

Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts if desired.

Add a few fresh cherries for decoration.

6. Chill

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

This allows all the layers to firm up and makes the dessert easier to slice.

⭐ Tips for the Best Cherry Cheesecake Lush

• Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
• Use cold milk for the instant pudding.
• Don’t rush the chilling time—the layers become much firmer and more flavorful after several hours.
• For cleaner slices, chill overnight and use a sharp knife.
• Keep the dessert refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

🍫 Delicious Variations

Try adding:

• White chocolate shavings
• Mini chocolate chips
• Chopped almonds
• A chocolate cookie crust
• Coconut flakes
• A drizzle of chocolate sauce

For a chocolate version, replace the graham crackers with crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.

⏱️ Recipe Details

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
Total Time: About 4½ hours
Servings: 12–16
Method: No-bake
Difficulty: Easy