Chocolate Cherry Lush (Easy No-Bake Layered Dessert)

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s easy, nostalgic, and guaranteed to disappear fast, this Chocolate Cherry Lush is exactly what you need. Creamy, chocolatey, and loaded with sweet cherry flavor, this layered dessert is a classic crowd-pleaser that feels fancy without requiring fancy skills.

This is the kind of recipe busy moms love for holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, and Pinterest-worthy dessert tables. It can be made ahead, feeds a crowd, and uses simple grocery-store ingredients you probably already recognize. No baking skills required—just a little layering magic.

Why This Chocolate Cherry Lush Is a Favorite

• No-bake friendly (aside from the quick crust)
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for stress-free hosting
• Feeds a crowd—great for parties and holidays
• Classic chocolate + cherry combo everyone loves
• Creamy, crunchy, and indulgent in every bite

If you love layered desserts that look impressive but are secretly easy, this one belongs on your must-make list.

What Is Chocolate Cherry Lush?

Chocolate Cherry Lush—sometimes called a four-layer dessert or lush dessert—is a retro American classic. Traditionally served chilled, it’s built with multiple layers that balance texture and flavor:

1. A buttery nut crust
2. Sweet cherry pie filling
3. Creamy cheesecake-style layer
4. Chocolate pudding
5. Whipped topping and chocolate garnish

The result? A dessert that slices beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this dessert so simple and reliable:

For the crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup crushed nuts (pecans, almonds, or walnuts work well)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 8 tablespoons salted butter, melted

For the layers

• 1 (21-oz) can cherry pie filling
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 (8-oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), divided
• 2 (3.4-oz) packages instant chocolate pudding
• 3 cups cold milk

For topping

• Chocolate shavings, curls, or sprinkles (optional but recommended)

Ingredient tips

• Don’t love nuts? You can leave them out or replace with crushed graham crackers.
• Want lighter options? Use sugar-free pudding and light whipped topping.
• Homemade whipped cream works beautifully if you prefer it over Cool Whip.

How to Make Chocolate Cherry Lush (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Make the crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Combine flour, crushed nuts, sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Press firmly into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely.

Step 2: Add the cherry layer
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cooled crust. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the cream cheese layer
Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then gently fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread carefully over the cherry layer.

Step 4: Make the chocolate pudding
Whisk pudding mixes with cold milk until thickened. Spread evenly over the cream cheese layer.

Step 5: Finish and chill
Top with remaining whipped topping. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings or curls. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving (overnight is even better).

Pro Tips for the Best Lush Dessert

• Cool the crust completely before layering to keep everything neat.
• Use an offset spatula for smooth, even layers.
• Chill overnight for the cleanest slices and best flavor.
• Serve cold—this dessert shines when fully set.

Variations You’ll Love

• Chocolate Almond Cherry Lush: Use almond extract in the cream layer and sliced almonds in the crust.
• Black Forest Style: Add shaved dark chocolate and a splash of cherry juice to the pudding layer.
• No-Nuts Version: Replace nuts with graham cracker crumbs or crushed cookies.
• Lightened-Up: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Make ahead: This dessert is even better the next day, making it ideal for holidays.
• Freezing: Not recommended—the texture of the cream layers can change.

When to Serve Chocolate Cherry Lush

This dessert fits just about any occasion:

• Valentine’s Day
• Christmas and holiday parties
• Potlucks and picnics
• Summer BBQs
• Family dinners when you want something special without stress

It’s rich without being heavy, sweet without being overwhelming, and familiar enough that everyone goes back for seconds.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Cherry Lush is proof that classic recipes never go out of style. It’s easy, comforting, and full of flavor—the kind of dessert that disappears fast and gets requested again and again.

If you’re building a Pinterest dessert board or planning a make-ahead treat for your next gathering, this one deserves a spot at the top. Creamy layers, bold chocolate, and juicy cherries—what’s not to love?

Save it, pin it, and don’t forget to grab a slice before it’s gone. 🍒🍫

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