Description
Strawberry Lush is a no-bake layered dessert featuring a crunchy Golden Oreo crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry gelatin topping. Topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, this refreshing treat is perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you desire a delicious, easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients
Crust
- 24 Golden Oreos
- 5 Tablespoons butter
- Butter or shortening (for greasing)
Gelatin Layer
- 1 Box strawberry gelatin (3-Ounce)
- ¾ Cup water (boiling)
- ½ Cup water (ice cold)
- 24 Ounces whipped topping (thawed, divided)
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 Ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 1 Cup powdered sugar
- 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 16 Ounces strawberries (fresh, diced)
Instructions
- Grease the Pan: Grease the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or pan with butter or shortening to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Make the Crust: Crush the Golden Oreos in a food processor at high speed until finely crumbled. With the processor running at low speed, slowly add the melted butter until the crumbs start to clump together.
- Press the Crust: Pour the Oreo crumb mixture into the greased pan and press them firmly and evenly into the bottom to form a crust layer.
- Freeze the Crust: Place the pan in the freezer for at least 20 minutes or until the crust is firm and set.
- Prepare the Gelatin Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the strawberry gelatin powder and boiling water until fully dissolved.
- Combine with Cold Water and Whipped Topping: Slowly whisk in the ice-cold water. Then, gently fold in one third of the thawed whipped topping to avoid deflating it. Refrigerate this gelatin mixture while preparing the next layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add Whipped Topping: Mix in another third of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture on low speed until combined.
- Assemble First Two Layers: Remove the crust from the freezer. Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over the frozen crust and spread it out smoothly.
- Add Gelatin Layer: Take the gelatin mixture from the fridge and stir gently to ensure it hasn’t separated. Pour this mixture over the cheesecake layer evenly.
- Chill the Dessert: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the gelatin layer is fully set.
- Finish with Toppings: Just before serving, spread the remaining third of whipped topping on top and smooth it out evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the dessert with freshly diced strawberries and serve chilled for a refreshing finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Freezing the crust before adding layers helps maintain texture.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and presentation.
- Keep the dessert refrigerated until serving to maintain the gelatin layer.
- For a firmer crust, press the crumbs tightly and chill well before assembling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American