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Chocolate Cherry Lush
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No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Lush

A rich, creamy no-bake layered dessert with a buttery crust, whipped cream cheese filling, cherry pie topping, chocolate pudding, and Cool Whip. This crowd-pleaser is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you need a refreshing sweet treat with minimal effort.
Prep Time20 minutes
Active Time10 minutes
Chill Time4 hours
Total Time4 hours 30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chocolate Cherry Lush, No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Lush, No-Bake dessert
Yield: 16 servigns
Calories: 275kcal
Author: Chef Marcy Grece

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Food processor (optional if using Oreo crust)
  • Plastic wrap or cover

Materials

  • For the crust
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup crushed pecans or preferred nuts
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 8 tbsp 1 stick salted butter, melted
  • Layers
  • 1 can 21 oz cherry pie filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 container 8 oz Cool Whip, divided
  • 2 packages 3.4 oz each instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • Optional toppings
  • Chocolate shavings or sprinkles
  • Maraschino cherries
  • Crushed Oreo cookies
  • Mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, pecans, and melted butter.
  • Press the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.
  • In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add in half of the Cool Whip and powdered sugar. Mix until fluffy and creamy.
  • Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
  • Layer cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
  • Prepare chocolate pudding with cold milk according to package instructions. Spread pudding over the cherry layer.
  • Top with remaining Cool Whip.
  • Garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or cherries as desired.

Notes

💡 Chef’s Tips

  • Add a splash of vanilla extract to the cream layer for added depth.
  • Use slightly frozen Cool Whip to help maintain structure.
  • Make it up to 2 days ahead and keep covered in the fridge.
  • Chill between each layer to keep them firm and distinct.

🔁 Variations

  • Swap cherry pie filling for strawberries, raspberries, or blueberry pie filling.
  • Use vanilla, white chocolate, or cheesecake pudding instead of chocolate.
  • Add peppermint extract for a holiday-inspired version.
  • Serve in dessert cups for individual portions at parties.