Description
Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, fluffy cheesecake filling and finished with a generous layer of sweet cherry pie filling. Perfect for potlucks or a refreshing treat, this easy-to-make dessert requires minimal preparation and chilling time for a luscious and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust Layer: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even and compact crust layer. Set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy with no lumps remaining.
- Add Cream and Sour Cream: Mix in the vanilla extract, heavy whipping cream, and sour cream. Continue beating until the mixture is fully combined, light, and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust using a spatula, smoothing the surface for an even layer.
- Chill the Dessert: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake layer to set and firm up properly.
- Add Cherry Topping: Once the cheesecake layer is fully set, evenly spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake layer to create the final topping.
- Serve: Cut the dessert into squares and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional graham cracker crumbs for an extra decorative touch.
Notes
- For best results, soften the cream cheese ahead of time to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Press the crust firmly to avoid a crumbly base when cutting and serving.
- Refrigerating overnight enhances the flavor and firmness of the cheesecake layer.
- Cherry pie filling can be substituted with other fruit pie fillings according to preference.
- This dessert is best served chilled and is not suitable for freezing due to the creamy topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
