Dessert

Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan September 3, 2026September 3, 2026

Introduction

This Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious cherry topping. It’s perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare ahead of time for gatherings or family treats.

This dessert has three clear layers: the bottom layer is a thick, crumbly light brown crust; the middle layer is a smooth, creamy white filling; the top layer is a glossy, deep red cherry sauce thickly spread and sprinkled with small pieces of chopped nuts. On top, three shiny whole cherries with green stems are placed, standing out against the red sauce. The dessert piece is square and sits on a wooden surface with a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers
¾ cup toasted pecans

½ cup melted butter
2 tbsp sugar

8 oz cream cheese
½ cup powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 ½ cups whipped topping

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
2 cups whipped topping (for top layer)
¼ cup chopped pecans

3–4 fresh cherries (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine crushed graham crackers, toasted pecans, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 ½ cups whipped topping until fully combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

Step 3: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer. Then spread the remaining 2 cups whipped topping on top, smoothing it out for a neat finish.
Step 4: Sprinkle the top with chopped toasted pecans and garnish with fresh cherries if desired. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cheesecake filling.

Use fresh or frozen cherries if you prefer, but warmed cherry pie filling gives this dessert its classic taste.
Make it gluten-free by substituting gluten-free graham crackers in the crust.
For a richer texture, use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.

Storage

Store the cheesecake lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. If needed, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing for easier cutting.

How to Serve

A square dessert bar with three clear layers on a white marbled surface: the bottom layer is a dense, crumbly brown crust with nut bits; the middle layer is smooth and creamy white; the top layer is a thick, glossy, deep red cherry topping scattered with chopped nuts. On top, three bright red cherries with green stems stand upright. The background shows out-of-focus white bowls with cherries. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert actually tastes better when made a day in advance, as chilling time helps the layers firm up and flavors meld together.

Can I freeze Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush?

It’s best served fresh from the refrigerator. Freezing is not recommended, as the whipped topping and cherry pie filling may change texture when thawed.