No Bake Berry Lush

No Bake Berry Lush is a light, creamy, and irresistibly fruity layered dessert that’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings. With a cookie crust, whipped cream, creamy cheesecake, pudding, and fresh berries, this chilled treat comes together without turning on the oven. It’s a refreshing crowd-pleaser for potlucks, picnics, and patriotic holidays.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is not only no-bake but also easy to assemble and make ahead. You’ll love the combination of textures: the buttery cookie crust, creamy cheesecake layer, smooth pudding, and juicy berries. It’s versatile, visually stunning, and cool enough to beat the heat. Plus, it can feed a crowd and be customized to your favorite berry combinations.

ingredients

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

• Golden Oreos or vanilla sandwich cookies (crushed)
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• Instant vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix
• Cold milk
• Fresh strawberries (sliced)
• Fresh blueberries
• Optional: raspberries or blackberries

directions

1. In a bowl, mix crushed cookies and melted butter until well combined. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust.
2. In another bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread evenly over the crust.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
4. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
5. Top with fresh berries in a decorative pattern or scattered evenly across the top.
6. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 12 to 15 people. Prep time is around 25 minutes, with at least 4 hours of chilling required, making the total time about 4 hours and 25 minutes.

Variations

• Use graham crackers or shortbread cookies instead of Golden Oreos for the crust.
• Add lemon zest to the cream cheese layer for a citrusy brightness.
• Swap in chocolate or lemon pudding for a flavor twist.
• Use a mixture of berries or stick to red and blue for patriotic holidays.
• Make individual servings in mason jars or clear cups for easy party portions.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert should be kept chilled and is not suitable for freezing, as the texture of the layers can be affected. It does not require reheating and is best served cold.

FAQs

What is No Bake Berry Lush?

It’s a chilled, layered dessert featuring a cookie crust, creamy filling, pudding, and fresh berries—no baking required.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made the night before or at least 4 hours ahead so it can set properly.

What berries work best?

Strawberries and blueberries are classic, but you can also use raspberries, blackberries, or a mix.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, just be sure it’s stabilized if you plan to make it in advance so it holds its shape.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free cookies for the crust and check that the pudding mix and whipped topping are gluten-free.

Can I use fresh pudding instead of instant?

Instant pudding is preferred for quick setting, but you can use cooked pudding as long as it’s fully cooled before layering.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Chilling the crust layer before adding the cream cheese mixture helps it firm up and maintain texture.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Mascarpone can be substituted for a slightly sweeter, smoother filling.

Can I serve this in a trifle bowl?

Yes, just layer everything the same way in a clear trifle dish for a more dramatic presentation.

How long will it last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about 3 days. After that, the berries may start to release moisture and soften the layers.

Conclusion

No Bake Berry Lush is a dreamy, creamy dessert that’s bursting with fresh fruit flavor and perfect for hot days. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a party, or just want a cool treat, this easy recipe delivers big on taste and presentation without ever turning on the oven. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a summer staple.

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