Looking for a refreshing and indulgent dessert that’s both easy and impressive? This No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is the perfect treat. Featuring layers of creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is as delicious as it is visually stunning. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, this lush is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert combines everything you love about strawberry cheesecake, but with no baking required! The creamy cheesecake filling is light and fluffy, perfectly complemented by the fresh, sweet strawberries and the buttery, crunchy graham cracker crust. The strawberry jam on top adds the perfect finishing touch, giving this dessert a vibrant pop of color and extra flavor. It’s simple, refreshing, and absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup strawberry jam

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Crust:

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until well mixed.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form an even crust layer.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and smooth.

3. Whip the Cream:

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.

4. Layer the Dessert:

Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
Top with half of the sliced strawberries.

5. Repeat the Layers:

Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, followed by the rest of the sliced strawberries.
You’ll end up with two creamy layers and two layers of fresh strawberries.

6. Add the Jam:

Heat the strawberry jam in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to soften it.
Drizzle the warm jam over the top of the dessert for a beautiful finish.

7. Chill:

Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dessert to firm up.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 3 hours (for chilling)

Variations

Berry Blend: Use a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful, mixed-berry version of this lush.
Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for a bright citrus flavor that complements the strawberries.
Crust Variations: For a twist, you can swap the graham cracker crust with crushed shortbread cookies, gingersnaps, or even pretzels for a salty-sweet combination.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped coconut cream, and a vegan-friendly crust to make this dessert vegan.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cheesecake lush in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This dessert doesn’t freeze well due to the whipped cream and strawberries, but you can prepare it a day ahead and keep it chilled in the fridge.
Refrigerating: Always refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to set and meld together.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are preferred for their texture and flavor, but you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

2. Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Yes, this dessert can be made a day ahead of time, and it often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.

3. Can I use another type of fruit?

Absolutely! This lush can be made with any fruit you prefer, such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Just be sure to adjust the jam or syrup accordingly.

4. Can I skip the strawberry jam topping?

You can skip the strawberry jam if you prefer a simpler dessert, but it adds a beautiful touch of color and extra sweetness that complements the cheesecake filling.

5. Can I use a store-bought crust?

Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust if you prefer to save time, though making your own is quick and allows for a fresher taste.

6. Can I add more layers to the dessert?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the layers if you’d like, adding more fruit or cream cheese mixture between the layers for a taller, more indulgent dessert.

7. How do I make the crust firmer?

To make the crust firmer, press it down more firmly in the dish before adding the filling, and refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before adding the cheesecake mixture.

8. Can I make this in individual servings?

Yes, you can assemble this dessert in individual parfait cups for a fun presentation. Just layer it in small glasses and chill accordingly.

9. Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

You can use whipped topping as a shortcut, but fresh whipped cream provides a richer, creamier texture.

10. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookies for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With layers of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust, it’s an indulgent yet refreshing treat that’s sure to delight. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for summer gatherings or a sweet after-dinner treat. Enjoy every creamy, fruity bite!

Strawberry Cheesecake Lush

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Print Recipe

Looking for a refreshing, no-bake dessert that’s both indulgent and easy to make? This No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is the perfect treat! Featuring layers of creamy cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that’s visually stunning and deliciously sweet. Perfect for summer gatherings, special occasions, or when you’re craving something light and fruity!

Total Time: 3 hours (for chilling)
Yield: 12 servings

Instructions

Make the Crust:
In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until well mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form an even crust layer.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
Whip the Cream:
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
Layer the Dessert:
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust. Top with half of the sliced strawberries.
Repeat the Layers:
Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the strawberries, followed by the rest of the sliced strawberries. You’ll have two creamy layers and two layers of fresh strawberries.
Add the Jam:
Heat the strawberry jam in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to soften it. Drizzle the warm jam over the top for a beautiful finish.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

Berry Blend: Swap strawberries for a mixed-berry version with blueberries and raspberries for added color and flavor.
Lemon Twist: Add lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for a citrusy contrast to the sweet strawberries.
Crust Variations: Try using crushed shortbread cookies, gingersnaps, or even pretzels for a different flavor in the crust.
Vegan Version: Substitute with dairy-free cream cheese, whipped coconut cream, and a vegan-friendly crust.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert, No-Bake, Summer Treats
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian