Cherry Cheesecake Lush

Indulge in the delightful layers of flavor with this Cherry Cheesecake Lush recipe. A fusion of golden Oreo cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and luscious cherry topping, this dessert promises to be a crowd-pleaser. With a satisfying crunch from pecans or walnuts, and the smoothness of whipped topping throughout, it’s a treat perfect for any occasion.

Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this dessert is sure to become a favorite at your table. Treat yourself to a slice and savor each layer of sweetness and texture in every bite.

Cherry Cheesecake Lush

Ingredients

1-14 ounce package of golden oreos, crushed in processor

⅓ cup butter, salted and melted

1 tbsp for preparing the pan

8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temp

¾ cup white sugar

16 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed

2 small boxes of Cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix

3 cups whole milk

2 large cans of cherry pie filling

1 cup chopped pecans or chopped walnuts

Instructions:

Butter the inside of a 9×13 baking dish and set to the side

Crush the cookies until small crumbs form

Add the melted butter and pulse until combined

Place the cookie mix into the bottom of the baking dish, press down and make the layer as even as possible

Place the crust into the freezer for 10 minutes while you make the filling.

In a bowl beat together the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla and 1 cup of the whipped topping.

Mix until smooth

Spread this mixture over the cookie crust and place back into the freezer for another 10 minutes

In another bowl combine the 2 packages of pudding mix, the milk and ½ cup of whipped topping mix. Using a whisk, whisk until it begins to thicken

Spread the pudding over the chilled cream cheese layer, smooth evenly and chill for 30 minutes or until the pudding is set

After 30 minutes, pour the Cherry pie filling over the pudding layer very carefully so as to not mix layers together

Carefully spread the remaining whipped topping over the entire dessert

Top with chopped pecans and chill for 1 to 2 hours before serving.

Enjoy!

Notes:

Crust Preparation: Using golden Oreos for the crust provides a delicious twist with a hint of vanilla. Freezing the crust helps it set and keeps the layers distinct.

Cream Cheese Layer: Softened cream cheese blended with sugar and vanilla creates a creamy and sweet base layer. Freezing after spreading ensures easier layering.

Pudding Layer: Cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix mixed with milk and whipped topping creates a light and fluffy layer. Chilling allows it to set properly.

Cherry Topping: Adding cherry pie filling carefully over the set pudding layer ensures a neat presentation without mixing layers. It provides a burst of fruity flavor.

Whipped Topping: Using frozen whipped topping ensures convenience and a smooth finish. It’s spread over the dessert for added creaminess.

Nut Topping: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and contrast to the creamy layers. They’re sprinkled on top just before chilling.

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Chilling: Allowing the dessert to chill for 1 to 2 hours before serving helps set the layers and enhances the flavors.

Serving: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Each bite combines creamy cheesecake, fruity cherries, and crunchy nuts for a delightful dessert experience.

Variations: You can customize this dessert by using different flavors of instant pudding mix or varying the type of pie filling to suit your taste preferences.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 12 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cookies for the crust.

While the recipe calls for golden Oreos, you could try graham crackers or other types of cookies that you enjoy.

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?

Yes, you can use freshly whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping.

Keep in mind that the texture and stability of the dessert might vary slightly, but it’s a viable substitution if you prefer homemade whipped cream.

Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?

While the recipe specifies cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix, you can certainly try different flavors for a unique twist.

Vanilla or white chocolate pudding could work well as alternatives.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert can be made ahead of time.

In fact, it often benefits from some time in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.

You can prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight before serving.

Can I omit the nuts if I have allergies or prefer not to use them?

Absolutely, you can omit the nuts if you have allergies or simply prefer not to use them.

The dessert will still be delicious without the nuts, and you can even consider substituting them with other toppings like chocolate shavings or fresh berries.

Can I use reduced-fat or fat-free cream cheese and whipped topping?

Yes, you can use reduced-fat or fat-free cream cheese and whipped topping if you’re looking for a lighter version of the dessert.

However, keep in mind that this might slightly affect the texture and flavor of the final product.

Is there a substitute for pudding mix if I don’t have it on hand?

If you don’t have cheesecake flavored instant pudding mix, you can use vanilla or white chocolate flavored pudding mix as alternatives.

The flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries as a topping instead of cherry pie filling.

However, keep in mind that using fresh cherries might require additional preparation, such as pitting and cooking with sugar to create a similar consistency to pie filling.

Can I make this dessert in advance for a special occasion?

Yes, Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a great make-ahead dessert.

You can prepare it the day before your event and let it chill in the refrigerator.

This can help the flavors meld and make serving on the day of the occasion more convenient.