Creamy, sweet, and bursting with juicy strawberry flavor, Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is one of those no-bake desserts that always gets asked for seconds. This layered treat combines a buttery Golden Oreo crust, a silky cream cheese layer, a cloud-like cheesecake pudding filling, and plenty of fresh strawberries for brightness. Fun fact: layered “lush” desserts became popular because they’re easy to assemble but look impressive — like a homemade showstopper that took way more effort than it did.
This recipe is special because it’s simple, quick to assemble, and perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. If you’re short on oven time but still want a dessert that tastes indulgent, this is your go-to. It pairs well in spirit with other no-bake favorites on the site; if you love creamy, layered sweets, check out this no-bake strawberry cheesecake variation for another crowd-pleaser no-bake strawberry cheesecake. Give it a try — you’ll be smiling by the first bite.
What is Strawberry Cheesecake Lush?
What’s in a name? Strawberry Cheesecake Lush sounds decadent because it is — lush in texture and flavor. Is it a cake, a pudding, or a trifle in disguise? Maybe all three. The playful name hints at layers so dreamy they almost melt on your tongue. Why “lush”? Because every spoonful mixes crunchy cookie, smooth cheesecake, fluffy pudding, and juicy strawberries into one delightful mouthful. After all, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Who can argue with that logic when dessert looks this good? Try it and see if it becomes your new family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll fall for this dessert for three big reasons. First, the main highlight is the contrast of textures — a crisp Golden Oreo base, silky cream cheese layer, light pudding filling, and fresh strawberry slices on top. Second, making this at home saves money compared to bakery or café desserts; store-bought layered cakes can be pricey, but this recipe uses budget-friendly ingredients like instant pudding and sandwich cookies. Third, the toppings and flavors — powdered sugar-sweetened cream cheese, real strawberries, and a cloud of Cool Whip — make each bite bright, creamy, and nostalgic.
If you like layered, no-bake sweets, this one is simpler than many and still impressive; for more layered dessert ideas, you can explore the classic Strawberry Cheesecake Lush on the site for inspiration strawberry cheesecake lush. Ready to make something delicious? Let’s get to it.
How to Make
Quick Overview
This recipe is quick to assemble and doesn’t require baking. Preparation is straightforward: crush cookies for the base, whip a smooth cream cheese layer, make instant cheesecake pudding, and top with strawberries and whipped topping. Expect about 20 minutes of hands-on prep and 2–4 hours chilling time for best results. The standout element is the creamy, layered texture that holds together beautifully after chilling.
Ingredients
36 Golden Oreos, crushed to fine crumbs
6 tablespoons butter, melted
8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
1 (16-ounce) container of Cool Whip, divided (you will use 1 cup, 1 cup, and the remaining amount for the top)
2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant cheesecake pudding mix
3 cups milk
3½ cups sliced strawberries, fresh
Note: Make sure the cream cheese is softened so it blends smoothly, and slice the strawberries evenly for pretty layers.
Directions
- Begin by crushing your Golden Oreos to fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place them in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin. Combine the crumbs with the 6 tablespoons of melted butter in a large bowl until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form an even crust. Refrigerate for at least 10–15 minutes to set.
- In a separate medium bowl, beat together the softened 8 ounces of cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar until completely smooth and lump-free. Fold in 1 cup of the Cool Whip until evenly mixed and light. Spread this cream cheese layer gently and evenly over the chilled cookie base. Smooth the top with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Pour the two packages of instant cheesecake pudding mix into a mixing bowl and whisk in 3 cups of cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Once the pudding is set, fold in another 1 cup of Cool Whip to lighten it. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Arrange the 3½ cups of sliced strawberries over the pudding layer in a single, even layer. Press them lightly into the pudding so they nestle without sinking.
- Top the assembled strawberries with the remaining Cool Whip, spreading it to cover the fruit completely. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to overnight, until fully firm and chilled.
What to Serve With
Serve slices of Strawberry Cheesecake Lush with fresh mint leaves for color and a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. For a lighter pairing, offer a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the sweetness. Coffee or a fruity iced tea complements the dessert nicely; for adults, a sparkling rosé or sweet Moscato pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Ingredient substitutions: If you prefer, substitute a light whipped topping to reduce calories, or use Greek yogurt folded into the cream cheese for tang. Graham cracker crumbs can replace Golden Oreos for a less sweet crust.
- Timing: Chill for at least 2 hours; overnight chilling yields the best sliceable texture.
- Flavor enhancements: Fold a teaspoon of vanilla or a tablespoon of lemon zest into the cream cheese layer for added brightness. Add a thin drizzle of strawberry jam over the pudding before adding fresh strawberries for more jammy sweetness.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t skip softening the cream cheese — lumps make the texture uneven. Press the crust firmly so the base holds together when cutting. Slice with a sharp, wet knife for clean pieces.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dessert is best kept chilled and should not be left out more than 2 hours at room temperature. Freezing is possible for up to 1 month: cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the refrigerator before serving; note the texture of fresh strawberries may soften after freezing. No reheating is necessary — serve cold for best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture that can make the pudding layer runny.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make it the day before for the best texture and flavor. Chill overnight, then slice and serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written because Golden Oreos contain gluten. You can substitute gluten-free sandwich cookies for a gluten-free version.
Can I use regular pudding instead of cheesecake-flavored?
Yes, vanilla or instant vanilla pudding will work fine, though the cheesecake flavor complements the cream cheese layer best.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat, attractive slices.
Conclusion
Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is an effortless, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines creamy layers, fresh fruit, and a crunchy cookie base into one delicious no-bake treat. It’s easy enough for beginner cooks, affordable to make at home, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. For a tasty reference and a slightly different take, you can compare notes with this version from Butter with a Side of Bread, or see another inspired post at Welcome Home Blog. Give it a try — your next gathering just found its dessert.
Strawberry Cheesecake Lush
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- 9x13 inch Pan
- Food Processor
Ingredients
Crust
- 36 pieces Golden Oreos, crushed
- 6 tablespoons Butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened Make sure it's at room temperature.
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1 cup Cool Whip, divided You will use 1 cup in the cream cheese layer and the remaining for topping.
Pudding Layer
- 2 packages Instant Cheesecake Pudding Mix Each package is 3.4 ounces.
- 3 cups Milk Cold milk is required.
Topping
- 3.5 cups Fresh Strawberries, sliced Slice evenly for pretty layers.
Instructions
- Begin by crushing your Golden Oreos to fine crumbs. Combine the crumbs with the melted butter in a large bowl until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form an even crust. Refrigerate for at least 10–15 minutes to set.
- In a separate medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until completely smooth and lump-free. Fold in 1 cup of the Cool Whip until evenly mixed and light. Spread this cream cheese layer gently and evenly over the chilled cookie base.
- Pour the instant cheesecake pudding mix into a mixing bowl and whisk in the cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Once the pudding is set, fold in another 1 cup of Cool Whip to lighten it. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries over the pudding layer in a single, even layer. Press them lightly into the pudding so they nestle without sinking.
- Top the assembled strawberries with the remaining Cool Whip, spreading it to cover the fruit completely. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to overnight, until fully firm and chilled.
