Creamy Cherry Cheesecake Lush Dessert with Graham Cracker Crust
Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla extract until thickened. Spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Evenly distribute the cherry pie filling on top of the whipped topping.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chilling Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
FAQs:
- What ingredients do I need to make Cherry Cheesecake Lush?
- To make Cherry Cheesecake Lush, you’ll need graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, cherry pie filling, and optionally, fresh cherries or additional whipped topping for garnish.
- How do I make the graham cracker crust?
- To make the graham cracker crust, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking dish to form an even layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the other layers.
- Can I use homemade cherry pie filling instead of store-bought?
- Yes, you can use homemade cherry pie filling if you prefer. To make it, combine fresh or frozen cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and the cherries are soft. Let it cool completely before using it in the dessert.
- How do I assemble the layers in Cherry Cheesecake Lush?
- To assemble Cherry Cheesecake Lush, start with the chilled graham cracker crust. Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture (cream cheese beaten with powdered sugar and vanilla, then folded with whipped topping) over the crust. Next, spread a layer of vanilla pudding (prepared with milk according to package instructions) over the cream cheese layer. Finally, top with cherry pie filling. Chill the dessert for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight, to allow the layers to set.
- Can I make Cherry Cheesecake Lush ahead of time?
- Yes, Cherry Cheesecake Lush is a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. This allows the layers to set properly and the flavors to meld together. Just keep it covered with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors in the fridge.