Welcome to our blog! Today, we’re bringing you a simple yet delightful dessert perfect for summer gatherings: No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush. This layered dessert features a crunchy cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries, making it a refreshing and easy-to-make treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a cool dessert, this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 package vanilla sandwich cookies (36 cookies)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 (16-ounce) containers whipped topping, divided
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant pudding mix, cheesecake flavor
- 3 cups milk
- 4 cups sliced strawberries
Instructions
Preparing the Crust:
- Crush the cookies: Place the vanilla sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. Alternatively, place the cookies in a resealable plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Mix with butter: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cookies and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Form the crust: Press the cookie mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
Preparing the Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in one container of whipped topping until smooth and evenly incorporated.
- Spread over crust: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
Preparing the Pudding Layer:
- Mix pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mixes and milk for about 2 minutes, until thickened.
- Spread over cheesecake layer: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Adding the Toppings:
- Top with remaining whipped topping: Spread the second container of whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer.
- Add strawberries: Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the whipped topping layer.
Chill and Serve:
- Chill the dessert: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the refreshing layers of this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush!
Cooking Notes
- Cookies: Feel free to use any type of vanilla sandwich cookies you prefer. Golden Oreos work particularly well.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Whipped Topping: For a richer flavor, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe, but you can also use other berries or a mix of berries for a different flavor.
Variations
Low-Sugar No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush:
For those looking to reduce sugar intake, here’s a low-sugar version of this delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
- Cookies: Use sugar-free vanilla sandwich cookies.
- Sugar: Substitute powdered sugar with a low-calorie sweetener like Stevia.
- Pudding: Use sugar-free instant pudding mix.
- Whipped Topping: Use sugar-free whipped topping.
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust: Crush the sugar-free cookies and mix with melted butter, then press into the baking dish.
- Make the cheesecake layer: Beat the cream cheese with the low-calorie sweetener, then fold in the sugar-free whipped topping.
- Prepare the pudding: Whisk the sugar-free pudding mix with milk, then spread over the cheesecake layer.
- Assemble and chill: Top with remaining whipped topping and sliced strawberries, then chill and serve as directed.
Gluten-Free No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush:
For a gluten-free option, here’s how you can make this dessert safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Ingredients:
- Cookies: Use gluten-free vanilla sandwich cookies.
- Pudding: Ensure the instant pudding mix is gluten-free.
- Other ingredients: Check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust: Crush the gluten-free cookies and mix with melted butter, then press into the baking dish.
- Make the cheesecake layer: Follow the same steps as the original recipe for the cheesecake and pudding layers.
- Assemble and chill: Top with remaining whipped topping and sliced strawberries, then chill and serve as directed.
This No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is a perfect dessert for warm weather. With its creamy layers and fresh strawberry topping, it’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you stick with the original recipe or try one of the low-sugar or gluten-free variations, this dessert is sure to be a hit. Try it out for your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dessert a day in advance. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
2. How long can I store this dessert?
Store the No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze this dessert?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dessert as the texture of the whipped topping and cream cheese filling may change upon thawing.
4. Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can use other berries or a mix of fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches.
5. What if I can’t find cheesecake-flavored pudding mix?
If you can’t find cheesecake-flavored pudding mix, you can use vanilla pudding mix as a substitute.
6. Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used instead of store-bought whipped topping for a richer flavor.
7. How can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, dairy-free whipped topping, and almond or soy milk for the pudding mix to make this dessert dairy-free.
Enjoy making and indulging in this No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush! Happy baking!
