Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush Recipe

The Potluck Dessert That Started a Family Tradition

Some recipes earn their place in your heart through pure deliciousness. My Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush did exactly that at our family reunion five years ago. I was nervous bringing a new recipe to a crowd of 50+ relatives who take their desserts very seriously. But when my aunt – the family’s unofficial dessert critic – asked for seconds and then the recipe, I knew I had a winner.

This layered dessert is pure indulgence from top to bottom. You’ve got a buttery pecan cookie crust, then a fluffy cheesecake layer, followed by creamy vanilla pudding, topped with that glossy cherry pie filling, and finished with clouds of whipped cream and crunchy pecan pieces. Every layer serves a purpose, and together they create a symphony of flavors and textures that’s absolutely unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush Recipe

What I love most about this dessert is that it’s impressive without being difficult. Each layer is simple to make, and the “lush” comes together with minimal effort. It’s the kind of dessert that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen when really, most of your time is just waiting for it to chill.

The make-ahead nature is another huge plus. In fact, this dessert actually tastes better after it’s had time to set overnight. The flavors meld together, the crust softens just slightly, and everything becomes one cohesive, delicious experience. Perfect for busy hosts who want to do the work ahead of time.

And let’s talk about that cherry pecan combination – it’s classic for a reason. The tart sweetness of the cherries balances the rich nuttiness of the pecans perfectly. Add in the creamy cheesecake and pudding layers, and you’ve got a dessert that appeals to virtually everyone.

Ingredients for Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush

1 ½ cups vanilla wafer crumbs (about 45 cookies)
1 cup finely chopped pecans
½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
3 tablespoons brown sugar

Cheesecake Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream

Pudding Layer:

2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding
3 cups cold whole milk
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Topping:

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
2 cups heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped pecans for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs – you can use a food processor or place them in a zip-lock bag and crush with a rolling pin. Combine the crumbs with chopped pecans, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until everything is evenly moistened.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. I use the bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it down evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely before adding the next layer.

Making the Fluffy Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Refrigerate while you prepare the pudding layer.

Preparing the Creamy Pudding Layer

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix with cold milk. If using almond extract, add it now. Whisk for about 2 minutes until the pudding starts to thicken. Work quickly before it sets completely.

Pour the pudding over the cheesecake layer and spread evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Adding the Cherry Pecan Toppings

When ready to serve, spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the pudding layer. You can either spread it out completely or leave small gaps to show the layers.

Whip the remaining cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe over the cherry layer. Sprinkle with chopped pecans. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Nutritional Information for Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush

Per serving (serves 15):

Calories: 425
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 235mg
Total Carbohydrates: 42g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 32g
Protein: 5g

Presentation Tips for Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush

Serve this beauty in a clear glass baking dish to show off all those gorgeous layers. If serving for a special occasion, pipe the whipped cream in decorative rosettes instead of spreading it. Arrange whole pecans in a pattern on top, or create a border around the edges.

For individual servings, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Serve squares on dessert plates with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and an extra cherry on top.

Perfect Pairings for Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush

Beverages:

Hot coffee
Amaretto liqueur
Cherry cola
Vanilla chai
Port wine

Occasions:

Holiday dinners
Church potlucks
Family reunions
Summer barbecues
Birthday celebrations

Recipe Variations and Substitutions for Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush

Blueberry Version: Substitute blueberry pie filling for the cherry.

Chocolate Cherry Version: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the pudding layer.

Nut-Free: Replace pecans with extra vanilla wafer crumbs in the crust.

No-Bake Crust: Skip baking the crust – just press firmly and refrigerate.

Individual Cups: Layer in parfait glasses for single servings.

FAQs About Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush

How far ahead can I make this dessert? Make it up to 2 days ahead. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving for best results.

Can I use homemade cherry filling? Absolutely! Homemade cherry filling is even better. Use about 3 cups.

What if I don’t have vanilla wafers? Graham crackers, Nilla wafers, or shortbread cookies all work well.

Can I freeze this dessert? Not recommended – the cream layers don’t freeze well and become watery when thawed.

Why did my cheesecake layer become runny? The cream cheese may have been too warm, or the whipped cream wasn’t stiff enough. Make sure both are properly prepared.

Conclusion: Layers of Love in Every Bite

This Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush has earned its place as one of my most-requested desserts. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, sparks conversations, and creates memories around the dessert table.

My personal tip: Don’t skip the overnight chilling time if you can help it. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but the magic really happens while this dessert rests. The flavors blend, the textures settle, and what you get the next day is absolute perfection.