Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush
Patricia Collins
This no-bake Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush is a creamy, nutty, and fruity dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. A buttery graham cracker and pecan crust is layered with fluffy cream cheese filling and topped with glossy cherry pie filling and whipped topping. It’s rich, refreshing, and easy to make ahead — a true crowd-pleaser for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners!
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Chill Time 4 hours hrs
Total Time 4 hours hrs 20 minutes mins
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans lightly toasted
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping
For the Toppings:
- 1 can 21 ounces cherry pie filling
- ½ teaspoon almond extract optional
- 2 cups whipped topping
- ¼ cup chopped toasted pecans
- 3 –4 fresh cherries optional, for garnish
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers, toasted pecans, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well and press firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch dish. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and lemon juice; mix well.
Gently fold in 1½ cups whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread evenly over the chilled crust.
Stir the almond extract (if using) into the cherry pie filling, then spread it evenly over the cheesecake layer.
Top with 2 cups whipped topping, smoothing evenly to cover the cherries.
Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top and garnish with fresh cherries, if desired.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving for best flavor and texture.
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Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free filling.
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Toast pecans before adding to bring out their rich, nutty flavor.
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Chill the dessert well — overnight is ideal for clean slices.
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Substitute vanilla wafers or Oreo crumbs for the crust for a flavor twist.
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Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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This recipe can be made a day in advance — it tastes even better the next day!