Cherry Cheesecake Lush Layers is a heavenly no-bake dessert that combines the buttery crunch of a golden Oreo crust, the creaminess of cheesecake filling, the fruity burst of cherry pie topping, and a cloud-like layer of whipped cream. Perfect for celebrations or a sweet ending to family dinners, this dessert is easy to assemble and irresistibly delicious. With its vibrant colors and layered textures, it’s a dessert that will steal the show and delight guests of all ages.
Whether you’re looking for an effortless dessert or a make-ahead treat for a gathering, this recipe is your answer. Let’s dive into the steps to create this stunning dish.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 (14-ounce) package of golden Oreos, finely crushed
- ⅓ cup salted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the pan
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated white sugar
- 16 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
For the Pudding Layer
- 2 small boxes of cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix
- 3 cups whole milk
For the Topping
- 2 large cans cherry pie filling
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Grease a 9×13-inch pan with 1 tablespoon of butter to ensure easy removal of slices.
- In a large bowl, combine the crushed golden Oreos with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and moist.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form a solid crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the layers.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in half of the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is fluffy and fully combined.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust, using a spatula to smooth the top. Return the pan to the refrigerator.
3. Prepare the Pudding Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix with the whole milk. Whisk for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Spread the pudding evenly over the cheesecake layer. Chill for 5-10 minutes to allow the pudding to set slightly.
4. Add the Cherry Topping
- Gently spread the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer. Use a spoon to distribute the cherries evenly across the surface.
5. Finish with Whipped Cream
- Top the dessert with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it smoothly with a spatula or an offset knife.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy finish, if desired.
6. Chill and Serve
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure the layers set properly.
- When ready to serve, slice into squares with a sharp knife. For a clean cut, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.
Cherry Cheesecake Lush Layers is a crowd-pleaser that delivers indulgence with every bite. Its no-bake simplicity, vibrant presentation, and harmonious blend of flavors make it an instant favorite. The buttery crust pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer, tangy cherries, and the light whipped topping. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, attending a potluck, or treating your loved ones, this dessert promises to impress.