Cherry Cheesecake Lush (No-Bake, Creamy & Crowd-Pleasing!)
Looking for a dessert that’s easy, dreamy, and guaranteed to wow a crowd? Meet your new favorite: Cherry Cheesecake Lush. This no-bake layered dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust, silky cheesecake filling, creamy whipped topping, and a glossy layer of sweet-tart cherry pie filling. It’s rich, refreshing, and dangerously addictive.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, potluck, or holiday dinner, this cherry cheesecake lush recipe is a guaranteed hit — and the best part? It’s made with simple ingredients and zero oven time.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Graham Cracker Crust:
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2 cups graham cracker crumbs – The crunchy, buttery base that balances the creamy layers.
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½ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Holds the crust together and adds richness.
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2 tablespoons sugar – Slight sweetness to round out the crust.
Cheesecake Layer:
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8 oz cream cheese (softened) – The star of the cheesecake layer; creamy and tangy.
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1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling and helps keep it smooth.
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
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1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip) – Lightens the texture and gives it a fluffy lift.
Pudding Layer:
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1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix – Adds creamy sweetness and structure.
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1 ½ cups cold milk – Activates the pudding and keeps it silky.
Cherry Topping:
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling – Sweet and tangy, the perfect fruity top layer.
Optional Garnish:
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Crushed graham crackers, white chocolate curls, or fresh mint
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
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In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly moistened.
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Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes while preparing the next layers.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
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In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
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Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and beat until fully incorporated.
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Fold in the whipped topping gently to maintain a fluffy texture.
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Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
3. Prepare the Pudding Layer
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In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, until it starts to thicken.
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Let it set for 5 minutes, then spread over the cream cheese layer.
4. Add the Cherry Topping
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Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer.
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Gently spread it out to cover the entire surface.
5. Chill & Serve
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) to let the layers set.
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Garnish with graham cracker crumbs or white chocolate curls just before serving.
Why Everyone Loves Cherry Cheesecake Lush
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No baking required – Perfect for summer or quick prep.
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Light and creamy texture – Not too heavy, but totally satisfying.
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Sweet-tart cherry flavor – Balances the richness of cream cheese.
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Feeds a crowd – Great for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.
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Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day.
Pro Tips for Lush Dessert Success
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Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest, creamiest texture.
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Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing — this prevents lumps.
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For a twist, swap cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or peach.
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Want a chocolate version? Use chocolate graham crackers and add chocolate pudding instead.
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Always chill long enough — this helps the layers hold their shape when sliced.
Serving Suggestions
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Slice with a hot, dry knife for clean edges.
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Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh cherry on top.
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Pair with a cup of hot coffee, iced latte, or sparkling rosé for a perfect dessert moment.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate No-Bake Dessert
This Cherry Cheesecake Lush is everything you want in a dessert: easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and insanely delicious. With its creamy layers, crisp crust, and juicy cherry topping, it’s bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. And since it’s no-bake, it’s as simple as it is sensational.
📌 Save, share, or print this recipe — and bring this cherry bliss to your next get-together. One bite, and everyone will be begging for seconds (and the recipe!).