Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a crowd-pleaser with its perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and chocolaty layers. The buttery crust gives way to a soft and velvety filling, while the cherry pie layer provides a pop of color and flavor. Topped off with rich chocolate pudding and Cool Whip, this dessert is decadent without being overly heavy. It’s a perfect make-ahead treat for family gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

First Layer:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup crushed nuts (pecans work great)
¼ cup sugar
8 tablespoons salted butter, melted

Second Layer:
21 ounces cherry pie filling (1 can)

Third Layer:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup Cool Whip (8 oz container)

Fourth Layer:
6.8 ounces chocolate instant pudding (2 packages)
3 cups milk

Fifth Layer:
Remaining Cool Whip (from the 8 oz container)
½ cup chocolate shavings or chocolate jimmies (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate Cherry Lush: A Decadent Layered Delight

Directions

Prepare the first layer:
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, crushed nuts, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
Add the second layer:
Once the crust has cooled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
Prepare the third layer:
In a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add in the Cool Whip and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Spread this mixture over the cherry pie filling layer.
Prepare the fourth layer:
In a separate bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with the milk. Follow the package instructions to prepare the pudding. Once prepared, spread the pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Add the fifth layer:
Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the chocolate pudding layer. For extra flair, sprinkle with chocolate shavings or chocolate jimmies if desired.
Refrigerate:
Keep the dessert refrigerated until ready to serve. Allow it to chill for a few hours to set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 36
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus refrigeration time)

Variations

Fruit Variations: Try using a different pie filling like blueberry or strawberry for a twist on the classic cherry flavor.
Nut-Free Option: Omit the crushed nuts if you need a nut-free version, or substitute with granola for a crunchy alternative.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped coconut cream, and a plant-based pudding mix for a vegan adaptation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld.
Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Enjoy it straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Can I make Chocolate Cherry Lush ahead of time?

Yes, Chocolate Cherry Lush is perfect for making ahead! In fact, it’s recommended to let it chill for a few hours before serving so the layers set properly.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to use cherry pie filling, as it’s thicker and richer. However, you can make your own homemade cherry filling if you prefer fresh cherries.

Can I substitute the Cool Whip with something else?

You can substitute Cool Whip with whipped cream, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

Can I freeze Chocolate Cherry Lush?

While this dessert can technically be frozen, it’s best enjoyed fresh or after a few days of refrigeration. Freezing may affect the texture of the whipped layers.

Can I use a different type of pudding mix?

Yes, you can use a different flavor of pudding mix, such as vanilla, but the chocolate flavor pairs best with the cherry filling.

How long can Chocolate Cherry Lush stay in the fridge?

Chocolate Cherry Lush will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option.

How do I prevent the crust from being soggy?

Make sure to allow the crust to cool completely before adding the other layers to avoid a soggy base.

Can I add more layers?

While this recipe is already layered beautifully, you could add a layer of crushed graham crackers or additional fruit if desired for extra texture and flavor.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to top the dessert with crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor and flair.

Is this dessert too sweet?

The balance of the tart cherry filling and the creamy layers ensures that the dessert isn’t overly sweet. However, you can reduce the sugar in the cream cheese layer if you prefer a less sweet version.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Lush is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and cherries. With its simple layers and rich flavors, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead, and will leave your guests asking for the recipe. Enjoy the creamy, fruity, and chocolaty goodness in every bite!

Chocolate Cherry Lush: A Decadent Layered Delight

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Chocolate Cherry Lush is a decadent layered dessert combining creamy, fruity, and chocolaty layers. The perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion, with a buttery crust, rich chocolate pudding, and cherry pie filling.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Yield: 36 servings
Category: Dessert No-Bake Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Holiday Desserts

Instructions

Prepare the first layer: Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, crushed nuts, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely.
Add the second layer: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cooled crust.
Prepare the third layer: In a mixer, beat softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and Cool Whip until smooth. Spread over the cherry pie filling.
Prepare the fourth layer: Combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with milk according to package instructions. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
Add the fifth layer: Spread remaining Cool Whip over the pudding. Optionally, top with chocolate shavings or chocolate jimmies.
Refrigerate: Chill in the refrigerator for several hours to set before serving.

Notes

Fruit Variations: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry or strawberry pie filling for a different twist.

Nut-Free Option: Omit the crushed nuts or substitute with granola for a crunchy topping.

Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped coconut cream, and a plant-based pudding mix for a vegan alternative.