Description
Strawberry Lush is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring a crunchy Golden Oreo crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a light strawberry gelatin topping adorned with fresh diced strawberries. Perfectly chilled for at least 4 hours, this dessert balances sweet, tangy, and creamy textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Crust
- 24 Golden Oreos
- 5 Tablespoons butter
- Butter (melted or shortening, for greasing)
Gelatin Layer
- 1 Box strawberry gelatin (3-Ounce)
- ¾ Cup boiling water
- ½ Cup ice cold water
- 24 Ounces whipped topping (thawed, divided into thirds)
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 Ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 1 Cup powdered sugar
- 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 16 Ounces strawberries (fresh, diced)
Instructions
- Grease baking dish: Grease the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or pan with melted butter or shortening to prevent sticking. Set the dish aside for later use.
- Make the crust: Using a food processor, crush the Golden Oreos at high speed until finely ground. While the processor runs at low speed, gradually pour in the melted butter until the crumbs clump together.
- Press crust into pan: Transfer the buttery Oreo crumbs into the greased pan. Firmly press the mixture evenly into the bottom to create a compact crust layer.
- Freeze crust: Place the crust in the freezer for at least 20 minutes to allow it to set and become firm before adding the filling layers.
- Prepare gelatin mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the strawberry gelatin powder and boiling water until completely dissolved. Slowly add the cold water while continuing to whisk until combined.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold one-third of the thawed whipped topping into the gelatin mixture, being careful to avoid deflating the whipped topping. Refrigerate this mixture while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Make cheesecake filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add whipped topping to cheesecake layer: Mix in another third of the whipped topping at low speed until fully incorporated, creating a light cheesecake filling.
- Assemble dessert layers: Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over the frozen Oreo crust, spreading it smoothly with a spatula.
- Combine gelatin layer: Remove the gelatin whipped topping mixture from the fridge and stir gently to recombine any settled gelatin at the bottom.
- Pour gelatin layer: Evenly pour the gelatin whipped topping mixture over the cheesecake layer, covering it completely.
- Chill dessert: Cover the entire dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin layer is fully set.
- Add final topping: When ready to serve, spread the remaining third of whipped topping over the set gelatin layer and smooth it out evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Top the dessert with fresh diced strawberries and serve chilled for a refreshing finish.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
- Do not overmix the whipped topping into the gelatin to maintain its light and airy texture.
- The dessert must chill for at least 4 hours to allow the gelatin to properly set; overnight chilling is best for clean slices.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture in the topping.
- Golden Oreos provide a mild vanilla flavor; you can substitute with plain or vanilla wafer cookies if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
