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Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a no-fuss, layered dessert that combines everything comfort-food lovers crave — a buttery cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, smooth vanilla pudding, and a sweet cherry topping. It’s rich, cool, and irresistibly creamy, making it a favorite at potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings.
This cherry cheesecake lush dessert is especially popular because it uses simple ingredients and comes together without complicated baking steps. It’s perfect for busy home cooks who want a show-stopping dessert that tastes like it took hours to make.
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Whether you’re serving it for a summer cookout, holiday table, or weekend treat, this layered cherry dessert always disappears fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy, beginner-friendly layered dessert
- Uses simple, store-bought ingredients
- No complicated baking or decorating
- Perfect for parties, holidays, and make-ahead desserts
- Creamy, rich texture with a sweet cherry finish
About the Ingredients
Cherry Pie Filling
Cherry pie filling adds sweetness, color, and a fruity contrast to the creamy layers. It balances the richness of the cheesecake and pudding while giving the dessert its classic cherry cheesecake flavor.
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Cream Cheese
Cream cheese forms the base of the cheesecake layer. When softened and whipped with powdered sugar, it creates a smooth, rich, and slightly tangy layer that holds everything together.
Vanilla Wafer Cookie Crumbs
Vanilla wafers create a buttery, lightly sweet crust that complements the creamy layers above. Their subtle vanilla flavor pairs perfectly with both cherry and cheesecake.
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Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix
The pudding layer adds structure and silkiness. It helps keep the dessert light while still providing that classic lush texture everyone loves.
Cool Whip
Cool Whip is folded into both creamy layers to keep the dessert fluffy and easy to spread. It also makes this recipe quick and reliable with consistent results.
Tips & Tricks
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps
- Let the crust cool completely before adding layers
- Fold Cool Whip gently to keep layers light and airy
- Chill long enough so the layers set cleanly before slicing
- Use a spatula to spread layers evenly for neat presentation
Pro Tips
- Chill overnight for the cleanest slices and best flavor
- Toast the pecans for extra crunch and nuttiness
- Use a glass baking dish to show off the beautiful layers
- Add the pecans just before serving for maximum texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preparing the vanilla wafer crust. Crush the cookies into fine crumbs, mix with melted butter, and press firmly into a greased baking dish. Bake until set, then allow it to cool completely.
While the crust cools, prepare the cheesecake layer by beating the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in part of the Cool Whip to create a light, creamy mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk with the vanilla pudding mix until thickened, then fold in the remaining Cool Whip. Assemble the dessert by layering the cheesecake mixture, cherry pie filling, and pudding mixture over the cooled crust. Finish with Cool Whip and pecans, then refrigerate until fully set.
Variations
- Swap cherry pie filling for strawberry or blueberry
- Use graham cracker crumbs instead of vanilla wafers
- Make it nut-free by omitting the pecans
- Add chocolate shavings for a chocolate-cherry twist
- Use sugar-free pudding and topping for a lighter option
How to Store
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator
- Keeps fresh for up to 4 days when chilled
- Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy layers
- Serve straight from the fridge for best texture
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cherry Cheesecake Lush ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best when made several hours or even a day ahead.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, but the dessert may be softer and less stable.
Do I have to bake the crust?
Baking helps the crust set firmly, but it can be chilled instead if preferred.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, it works well for large gatherings using a bigger dish.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It’s balanced, with the cherry filling cutting through the creamy layers.
Cherry Cheesecake Lush Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the vanilla wafer cookie crumbs with the melted butter and press firmly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
- Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, then gently fold in 2 cups of the Cool Whip.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and pudding mix until thickened, then fold in the remaining Cool Whip.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cherries.
- Top with the remaining Cool Whip and sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.
Notes
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