Name: Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers; 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans, lightly toasted; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 1/2 cups whipped topping; 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 2 cups whipped topping; 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans; 3–4 fresh cherries (optional, for garnish)

Description

This layered cherry pecan cheesecake lush is creamy, crunchy, and irresistibly delicious. A dreamy dessert with cheesecake, cherry filling, and whipped topping on a buttery pecan crust.

Ingredients

➤ Crust:

1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers

3/4 cup finely chopped pecans, lightly toasted

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

➤ Cheesecake Layer:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 1/2 cups whipped topping

➤ Toppings:

1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling

1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

2 cups whipped topping

1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans

3–4 fresh cherries (optional, for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers, toasted chopped pecans, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Chill for 20–30 minutes or bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes. Let cool completely.

Make the Cheesecake Layer:
In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix well. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups whipped topping until fully combined. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.

Add Cherry Layer:
Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. Spread gently to cover.

Add Final Topping:
Spread remaining 2 cups of whipped topping over the cherry layer. Sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans and garnish with fresh cherries if desired.

Chill to Set:
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow layers to firm up before slicing and serving.

Notes

Toasting pecans enhances their nutty flavor and adds texture.

Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother cheesecake layer.

You may substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, raspberry, or mixed berry.

Chill thoroughly for clean slices and best texture.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Irresistible Desserts
Method: No-Bake / Baked Crust Option
Cuisine: American