Strawberry Cheesecake Lush 🍓🍰

This Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers creamy cheesecake, luscious strawberries, and a buttery crust. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave something sweet and refreshing, this dessert is sure to impress your friends and family! Enjoy it chilled for a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite! 🌞🍓

Ingredients

For the crust

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

For the cheesecake layer

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For the strawberry layer

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the topping

• 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
• Additional strawberries for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to form the crust.

Step 2: Make the cheesecake layer

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Layer the cheesecake

• Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the prepared crust in the baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the strawberry layer

• In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juices.

Step 5: Assemble the dessert

• Once the strawberries have macerated, spoon the strawberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer. Use a spatula to spread it gently if needed.

Step 6: Add the topping

• Top the strawberries with a layer of whipped cream, spreading it evenly across the surface. Garnish with additional strawberry slices for a beautiful finish.

Step 7: Chill and serve

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set. Serve chilled and enjoy each luscious bite!

🍽️ This dessert is best served chilled, making it perfect for warm-weather gatherings. You can prepare it a day in advance to save time on the day of your event!

Variations

• Berry mix: Swap out some of the strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a berry medley twist! 🍇🍓
• Nut crust: For a twist on the crust, try using crushed almonds or walnuts mixed with the graham cracker crumbs for added flavor and texture! 🥜
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream layer for an extra decadent touch! 🍫
• Dairy-free: Use non-dairy cream cheese and whipped coconut cream to make this dessert dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.

Enjoy making this fabulous Strawberry Cheesecake Lush—it’s sure to become a family favorite! 💕