Name: Layered Cherry Cheesecake Lush Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups chocolate graham cracker or Oreo crumbs; ½ cup melted butter; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided; 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling; 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix; 1½ cups cold milk; Optional: chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or extra cherries for garnish

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If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that’s both rich and refreshing — and incredibly easy to make — this Layered Cherry Cheesecake Lush is everything you want and more. It’s cool, creamy, chocolatey, fruity, and absolutely perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you want a no-bake treat that looks as good as it tastes.

This dessert is made up of four indulgent layers: a buttery chocolate cookie crust, a fluffy cheesecake center, sweet cherry pie filling, and silky chocolate pudding — all topped off with a cloud of whipped topping and your choice of garnish. Every bite is full of different textures and flavors, and it’s one of those recipes that disappears fast whenever it’s served.

The best part? It comes together with minimal effort and no oven time required. Let’s walk through how to make the crust and that smooth cheesecake layer.

Ingredients for Layered Cherry Cheesecake Lush

For the Crust:

2 cups chocolate graham cracker or Oreo crumbs
½ cup melted butter

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the Cherry Layer:

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:

1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
1½ cups cold milk

Topping:

1½ cups whipped topping
Optional: chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or extra cherries

STEPS: Make the Crust and Cream Cheese Layer

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Place in the refrigerator and chill for 10–15 minutes to set.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust, making sure to cover edge to edge for a solid base.

Add the Cherry and Chocolate Layers to Your Cheesecake Lush

Now that your crust is set and your cream cheese layer is smooth and fluffy, it’s time to take this dessert to the next level. This part is where that “lush” magic really happens — the sweet cherry filling and chocolate pudding add bold flavor and beautiful contrast that makes this dish a standout on any dessert table.

Layering each element gently is key here. You want to preserve those defined layers for a gorgeous presentation, especially once it’s sliced and served. Don’t worry — it’s easier than it looks, and the end result is so worth it.

STEPS: Layer the Fruit and Pudding

Step 3: Add the Cherry Pie Filling

Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread it across the surface. Take your time and go slow — this helps prevent the layers from mixing and keeps your dessert looking picture-perfect.

Step 4: Mix and Spread the Chocolate Pudding Layer

In a clean bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes, or until thickened. Let it sit for a minute or two if it needs to firm up a bit more. Once it’s ready, spread it evenly over the cherry layer. This pudding brings a rich, silky finish that perfectly balances the fruity sweetness.

STEPS: Top It Off and Chill

Step 5: Add the Final Layer of Whipped Topping

Spread the remaining 1½ cups of whipped topping evenly over the pudding. This soft, creamy finish ties all the layers together and gives the dessert that signature lush look.

Step 6: Garnish (Optional but Recommended)

If you want to take it up a notch, add some chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or a few extra cherries on top for that extra pop of flavor and style.

Layered Cherry Cheesecake Lush FAQ and Serving Tips

By now, your Layered Cherry Cheesecake Lush is fully assembled, and you’re just a few hours away from slicing into the perfect creamy, fruity, chocolatey dessert. But before you dive in, let’s cover a few quick tips and common questions to help you get clean slices, store leftovers, and even make this dessert ahead for any occasion.

1. How long should I chill it before serving?

For the best results, chill the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This helps all the layers set properly, especially the cheesecake and pudding layers.

2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! This is a great make-ahead dessert. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, and it actually tastes better after chilling overnight.

3. How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. For even cleaner slices, pop the dessert in the freezer for 15–20 minutes before slicing to firm up the layers just a bit.

4. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Absolutely. Just be sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks and sweetened to your liking. Keep in mind that homemade whipped cream may not hold its shape as long as whipped topping, especially if you’re making this a day ahead.

5. What other fruit fillings work well?

Blueberry, strawberry, or even mixed berry pie filling are all delicious alternatives. You can swap out the cherry layer for your favorite fruit — just keep the quantity about the same.

Conclusion: A Lush Dessert That Never Fails to Impress

Layered Cherry Cheesecake Lush is everything you want in a no-bake dessert: creamy, cool, rich, and bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect mix of textures — from the chocolatey crunch of the crust to the velvety cheesecake and smooth pudding, all topped with bright cherries and fluffy whipped cream.

Whether you’re serving this at a summer BBQ, a holiday table, or just because, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And if you try a fun variation — different pie fillings, flavored puddings, or even a cookie crust twist — I’d love to hear how it turned out.

This one’s a keeper. Slice it cold, serve it proud, and enjoy every creamy, fruity bite.