Strawberry Cheesecake Lush Recipe

Dreamy Strawberry Cheesecake Lush Recipe for Sweet Moments

Sweet summer memories come rushing back with this incredible strawberry cheesecake lush dessert that melts in your mouth.

Each smooth layer promises pure indulgence for anyone craving something decadent.

Creamy textures blend perfectly with bright fruity notes that dance across your palate.

Surprising guests with a dessert that looks complicated but takes minimal effort to create.

Dessert lovers appreciate how simple ingredients combine into something spectacular.

Layers of graham cracker, cream cheese, and fresh strawberries promise a treat you cannot resist.

Grab a spoon and get ready to fall in love with this irresistible summer sensation.

What Makes Strawberry Cheesecake Lush So Tempting

  • Create Effortless Layers: This dessert builds incredible flavor profiles with simple, no-bake techniques that stack delicious ingredients without complicated cooking skills.
  • Enjoy Refreshing Strawberry Sweetness: The combination of fresh strawberries and gelatin creates a vibrant, fruity layer that brings bright summer flavors to every creamy bite.
  • Indulge in Creamy Texture Harmony: Smooth cheesecake filling blended with whipped topping delivers a silky, light texture that melts perfectly in your mouth, offering a luxurious dessert experience.
  • Celebrate Make-Ahead Convenience: This recipe allows complete preparation in advance, making it ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, and stress-free entertaining without last-minute cooking pressure.

Everything You Need For Strawberry Cheesecake Lush

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a classic, sweet base for the dessert with a delightful crumbly texture.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust together and adds rich, golden flavor.
Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, tangy foundation for the creamy layer, best when softened at room temperature.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a silky smooth consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
  • Whipped Topping: Adds lightness and volume to the cheesecake layer, providing a fluffy texture.
Strawberry Layer Ingredients:
  • Strawberry Gelatin: Gives a vibrant color and fruity flavor to the dessert, creating a glossy strawberry layer.
  • Boiling Water: Helps dissolve the gelatin completely and activate its setting properties.
  • Cold Water: Helps cool down the gelatin mixture for proper setting.
  • Fresh Strawberries: Adds natural sweetness, fresh texture, and beautiful color to the dessert.
  • Additional Whipped Topping: Provides a light, creamy topping to complete the dessert.

How To Put Together Strawberry Cheesecake Lush

Step 1: Create Crunchy Base

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Grab a mixing bowl and combine:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Melted butter

Press the mixture down firmly into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pop it in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let the crust cool completely before moving forward.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Cream cheese
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Beat until the mixture looks silky smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping. Spread this dreamy layer evenly across the cooled crust.

Step 3: Create Vibrant Strawberry Layer

Grab another bowl and prepare strawberry gelatin:
  • Boiling water
  • Strawberry gelatin powder

Stir until everything dissolves completely. Add cold water and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Fold in sliced strawberries. Carefully pour this ruby-red mixture over the cheesecake layer. Slide into the refrigerator and let it set for 2-3 hours.

Step 4: Crown With Fluffy Topping

Spread the remaining whipped topping across the strawberry layer. For extra flair, sprinkle fresh strawberry slices on top.

Step 5: Chill and Delight

Cover the dish and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This ensures all layers are perfectly set. Slice and serve cold for a refreshing dessert that’ll make everyone smile.

Best Tips For Strawberry Cheesecake Lush Success

  • Crush Crumbs Perfectly: Use a food processor or rolling pin to create fine, even graham cracker crumbs for a smooth, compact crust that holds together beautifully.
  • Soften Cream Cheese Right: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a silky-smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer without over-beating.
  • Control Gelatin Consistency: Cool the strawberry gelatin mixture until it's slightly thickened but not set to prevent uneven layering and maintain a beautiful, glossy finish.
  • Whip Topping Gently: Fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture carefully to keep the texture light and airy, avoiding deflating the delicate mixture.
  • Customize Strawberry Freshness: Replace some of the gelatin strawberries with fresh, sliced strawberries for added texture and a burst of natural sweetness.

How To Store Strawberry Cheesecake Lush The Right Way

  • Refrigerate: Store the strawberry cheesecake lush in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it covered to prevent absorbing other food odors and maintain its fresh texture.
  • Freezing: Wrap the dessert tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its creamy consistency.
  • Reheating: This dessert is best enjoyed cold. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the layers to separate or become watery. Remove from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to let it slightly soften.
  • Portion Control: Cut individual slices and store them in separate sealed containers for easy grab-and-go treats. This method helps maintain the dessert's structure and prevents unnecessary exposure to air.

What Goes Well With Strawberry Cheesecake Lush

  • Pair with Sweet Dessert Wine: A chilled Moscato or Riesling complements the strawberry cheesecake's fruity and creamy profile, enhancing the dessert's delicate sweetness without overpowering its delightful layers.
  • Match with Sparkling Beverage: Prosecco or champagne adds elegant effervescence that cuts through the rich cheesecake, creating a refreshing contrast and elevating the overall tasting experience.
  • Combine with Herbal Tea: Light chamomile or mint tea provides a gentle, soothing counterpoint to the dessert's richness, cleansing the palate and offering a subtle herbal undertone.
  • Serve with Fresh Coffee: A smooth cappuccino or light roast coffee brings out the graham cracker crust's warmth while balancing the strawberry's bright acidity, creating a harmonious flavor combination.

Fun Ways To Change Strawberry Cheesecake Lush

  • Tropical Paradise Swap: Replace strawberries with diced mangoes and use mango gelatin for a sunny, tropical-inspired version that brings vibrant island flavors to your dessert.
  • Chocolate Berry Remix: Add cocoa powder to the crust and use chocolate pudding mix in the cheesecake layer for a rich, decadent chocolate-strawberry combination that chocolate lovers will adore.
  • Berry Blend Explosion: Mix multiple berries like raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries to create a colorful, multi-berry gelatin layer that adds complexity and brightness to the classic recipe.
  • No-Bake Summer Option: Skip the crust baking step by using pre-made graham cracker crust and chilling each layer instead of baking, perfect for hot summer days when you want a cool, refreshing dessert.

Common Questions About Strawberry Cheesecake Lush

  • What makes this strawberry cheesecake lush different from a traditional cheesecake?

This dessert is a no-bake, layered version that’s lighter and easier to prepare. Unlike traditional cheesecake, it features a gelatin strawberry layer and doesn’t require baking the entire dessert.

  • Can I use fresh or frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Fresh strawberries work best for the topping and mixing into the gelatin layer. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them completely to prevent excess moisture that could affect the dessert’s texture.

  • How do I ensure my cheesecake layer is smooth and lump-free?

Use room temperature cream cheese and beat it thoroughly with powdered sugar and vanilla. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl while mixing to incorporate all ingredients evenly and create a smooth, creamy texture.

  • Is this dessert suitable for people who can't have gluten?

The current recipe uses graham cracker crumbs, which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour mixed with melted butter.

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Strawberry Cheesecake Lush Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Lush Recipe


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4.6 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Layered strawberry cheesecake lush delivers pure dessert magic with creamy indulgence and graham cracker charm. Sweet summer berries and silky cream cheese blend perfectly, promising delightful moments that sweep you into delicious bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 2 cups whipped topping
  • 1 package (3 ounces/85 grams) strawberry-flavored gelatin

Additional Ingredients:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • ½ cup cold water

Garnish:

  • Additional fresh strawberries

Instructions

  1. Craft a buttery foundation by pulverizing graham crackers and blending with melted butter. Press the crumbly mixture into a baking dish, creating a compact base. Bake briefly at moderate temperature until lightly golden, then allow to cool completely.
  2. Whip cream cheese until velvety smooth, incorporating powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Gently fold in a portion of whipped topping, creating a luxurious, airy texture. Carefully spread this creamy mixture over the cooled crust, ensuring an even layer.
  3. Activate strawberry gelatin by dissolving in boiling water, stirring until completely integrated. Introduce cold water and allow the mixture to slightly cool. Incorporate fresh strawberry slices into the gelatin, creating a vibrant, fruity layer. Delicately pour this crimson mixture over the cream cheese foundation.
  4. Once the gelatin sets firm, crown the dessert with remaining whipped topping. Distribute the topping uniformly across the surface, creating a cloud-like blanket. Optionally, embellish with additional fresh strawberry slices for visual appeal and flavor enhancement.
  5. Refrigerate the assembled dessert, allowing all layers to harmonize and solidify. Permit the lush to chill thoroughly, ideally for one hour or more. When ready, slice into elegant portions and serve directly from the chilled dish.

Notes

  • Customize the crust by swapping graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Reduce sugar content by using low-fat cream cheese and sugar-free whipped topping, making the dessert more diabetic-friendly.
  • Enhance flavor complexity by adding a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of dark chocolate over the top layer for extra elegance and depth.
  • Prevent gelatin layer from becoming too firm by allowing it to cool slightly before pouring over the cheesecake layer, ensuring a smooth, silky texture.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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