Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a delicious, no-bake dessert that combines layers of creamy cheesecake, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a sweet cherry topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want a sweet, refreshing treat. Here’s how to make it:
Cherry Cheesecake Lush Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers crushed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries with sugar, if preferred)
Instructions:
1. Make the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the next layers.
2. Make the cheesecake layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with the 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
3. Top with cherry filling:
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly.
- For a fresh twist, you can also use fresh cherries, lightly sweetened with sugar, for a more natural topping.
4. Chill:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set properly and for the flavors to meld.
5. Serve:
- Once chilled and set, slice into squares and serve. Garnish with additional whipped cream or a cherry on top, if desired.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead, as it needs to chill for a few hours.
- Flavor variations: Swap the cherry topping for other fruit pie fillings such as strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry for different variations.
- Crust alternatives: For a different twist, you can substitute graham crackers with crushed vanilla cookies, Nilla wafers, or even pretzels for a salty-sweet contrast.
Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a decadent, creamy dessert with layers of flavor, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without turning on the oven. Enjoy!