Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is pure summer happiness in dessert form—a dreamy, no-bake layered treat bursting with sweet strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and that irresistible buttery graham cracker crust. This easy, crowd-pleasing recipe combines simple ingredients into one stunning dish that has everyone reaching for a second slice. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, celebrating a family get-together, or just indulging in something special for yourself, Strawberry Cheesecake Lush will never disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the classic graham cracker base to the luscious cream and fresh strawberries. Here’s the delicious line-up:
- Graham cracker crumbs: These create the crunchy, buttery foundation of the lush that balances all the creamy layers above.
- Unsalted butter (melted): This is what brings the crumbs together for a perfectly pressed crust—don’t skimp on it!
- Cream cheese (softened): The real star of the creamy layer, giving a rich, tangy backbone that anchors the dessert.
- Powdered sugar: For sweetness and smoothness, powdered sugar blends seamlessly with the cream cheese.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth, enhancing the cheesecake flavor.
- Whipped topping: This keeps things light and fluffy, making the dessert feel like a cloud (plus extra for that pretty garnish!).
- Instant cheesecake pudding mix: Layers in even more cheesecake flavor and makes the filling so easy to whip together.
- Cold milk: Important for activating the pudding mix and creating the perfect consistency for layering.
- Fresh strawberries (sliced): Nothing beats the juiciness of real strawberries—they’re what make this dessert so dazzling and refreshing.
- Strawberry glaze (optional): For a glossy, extra-sweet strawberry finish (totally up to you, but it’s a gorgeous touch for special occasions!).
- Fresh mint leaves (optional): A little bit of green adds brightness and takes your presentation to the next level.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Lush
Step 1: Create that Buttery Graham Cracker Crust
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and stirring together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until they’re fully combined—the mix should feel like wet sand. Press this mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, creating a solid foundation for your Strawberry Cheesecake Lush. A flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup is perfect for getting the crust nice and snug!
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s silky-smooth and lump-free. Next, mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract so everything is luxuriously creamy and fragrant. Now gently fold in the whipped topping, being careful not to deflate it—you want this layer to be light, airy, and dreamy. Spread it evenly over your crust, reaching to every corner.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Pudding Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant cheesecake pudding mix and cold milk. Keep whisking for about two minutes, until the pudding thickens and reaches a luscious, spreadable consistency. Spoon this layer over the cream cheese mixture and smooth out the surface with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Add Fresh Strawberry Topping
This is where the wow-factor happens! Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the pudding layer. For an extra burst of strawberry flavor and a glistening finish, drizzle the optional strawberry glaze over the fruit. It’s a simple touch that makes the whole dessert look like it came straight from a bakery window.
Step 5: Chill and Garnish
The hardest part: patience! Cover the dish and pop your Strawberry Cheesecake Lush into the fridge for at least four hours, or overnight if you can. This allows the layers to set up perfectly and the flavors to meld. Just before serving, dollop extra whipped topping on top and scatter a few fresh mint leaves for a fresh pop of color.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Lush
Garnishes
Garnishing is your chance to make each slice irresistible. Pile on cloud-like dollops of whipped topping, tuck in a few mint leaves, and maybe place one or two extra strawberry slices on each serving. If you’re feeling extra, a drizzle of extra strawberry glaze over the top transforms the Strawberry Cheesecake Lush into a show-stopper!
Side Dishes
Keep it fresh and light with accompaniments like a crisp mixed berry salad, iced herbal tea, or lemon shortbread cookies. Because Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is rich, cooling beverages and simple sides make a balanced pairing and keep the focus on your no-bake masterpiece.
Creative Ways to Present
Try making individual servings by assembling the layers in mason jars or stemless wine glasses—perfect for picnics or parties! For a dramatic touch at the dinner table, decorate the platter with whole strawberries and edible flowers. Or serve as part of a dessert buffet next to other summer treats for a colorful, inviting spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers, Strawberry Cheesecake Lush stores wonderfully. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days, and know that the flavors might get even better as the dessert sits!
Freezing
Freezing is a breeze if you’d like to prep well ahead of time. Wrap the entire uncut Strawberry Cheesecake Lush securely in multiple layers of plastic wrap and then foil, or use freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to one month. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh garnishes just before serving for best results.
Reheating
This luscious dessert is best served cold and truly doesn’t require any reheating. If you’ve frozen your Strawberry Cheesecake Lush, let it thaw gently in the fridge until it returns to that perfect chilled, creamy, sliceable state. Then it’s ready to wow again!
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries are preferred for their firm texture and bright flavor, but in a pinch, you can use thawed frozen strawberries. Be sure to drain them well and pat them dry to avoid making the dessert too watery.
What if I can’t find cheesecake pudding mix?
If cheesecake pudding mix isn’t available, vanilla or white chocolate instant pudding mix works as a substitute. For extra tang, stir in a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt or a splash of lemon juice to mimic that classic cheesecake flavor.
How far in advance can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Lush?
This dessert is made for prepping ahead! Feel free to prepare your Strawberry Cheesecake Lush up to a full day in advance to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to become perfectly sliceable.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream gives an even richer, fresher flavor. Just be sure to whip it to soft peaks with a bit of sugar and vanilla, and use it in place of the whipped topping in equal measure.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! Swap in gluten-free graham crackers or a nut-based crust for a delicious gluten-free Strawberry Cheesecake Lush. Just verify your pudding mix is gluten-free as well and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
Every bite of this Strawberry Cheesecake Lush feels like a celebration of sunshine, sweetness, and fun. It’s easy, vibrant, and impossible to resist—a perfect dessert for sharing with people you love. Give it a try and watch your guests swoon!
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Lush Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the luscious layers of this Strawberry Cheesecake Lush dessert that brings together the flavors of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a sweet treat any time!
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups whipped topping
Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant cheesecake pudding mix
- 1½ cups cold milk
Toppings:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- ½ cup strawberry glaze (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, press into baking dish.
- Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese, add sugar, vanilla, fold in whipped topping, spread over crust.
- Pudding Layer: Whisk pudding mix and milk, spread over cream cheese layer.
- Toppings: Add sliced strawberries, drizzle with glaze if desired. Chill for at least 4 hours.
- Serving: Top with whipped topping and mint leaves before serving.
Notes
- You can use a store-bought graham cracker crust for convenience.
- For extra strawberry flavor, fold chopped strawberries into the pudding layer.
- This dessert is best served cold and can be made a day ahead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
