Description
Indulgent Cherry Lush dessert weaves creamy layers of blissful flavor into a classic southern-style treat. Cool, silky textures and sweet cherry notes create a delightful dessert you cannot resist.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Base:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping
Cherry Topping:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs, mixing thoroughly with melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles damp sand.
- Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating a compact and uniform base. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, gradually incorporating powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy filling with a consistent texture.
- Spread the cream cheese filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, using a spatula to ensure an even layer that reaches all corners of the dish.
- For the cherry topping, combine cherry pie filling with water in a small saucepan. If desired, mix cornstarch to create a slightly thickened consistency.
- Simmer the cherry mixture over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and achieve a glossy appearance.
- Allow the cherry topping to cool for 10 minutes, then carefully pour and spread over the cream cheese layer, covering the entire surface.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and achieve a firm, sliceable texture.
- Before serving, let the cherry lush sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to make cutting easier. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Customize the graham cracker crust by mixing in ground nuts or using different cookie types like chocolate wafers for added flavor complexity.
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps and create a smoother, more uniform filling that blends easily with whipped topping.
- For a lighter version, substitute full-fat cream cheese with low-fat or Greek yogurt, and use sugar-free whipped topping to reduce overall calories.
- Transform this dessert into individual servings by preparing in small mason jars or ramekins, perfect for portion control and elegant presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Refrigerating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg