Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No Bake Berry Lush is a refreshing, layered dessert that’s perfect for summer. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, a sweet berry layer, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s light, fruity, and incredibly easy to assemble—no oven required. This chilled dessert is great for potlucks, picnics, or any time you crave something cool and delicious.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
graham cracker crumbsmelted buttersugarcream cheesevanilla extractpowdered sugarwhipped topping (like Cool Whip)instant vanilla puddingcold milkmixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)berry gelatin (optional, for an extra fruity layer)
directions
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Fold in half of the whipped topping to create a light and fluffy layer. Spread this over the chilled crust.
In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Spread this layer evenly over the cream cheese mixture.
Add a layer of fresh mixed berries on top of the pudding.
Top with the remaining whipped topping and spread evenly.
For an optional berry gelatin layer, dissolve berry-flavored gelatin in hot water, let it cool slightly, then gently pour over the berry layer before adding the whipped topping. Chill until set.
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4-6 hours
Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers for the crust.
Substitute chocolate pudding for vanilla for a berry-chocolate twist.
Add lemon zest to the cream cheese layer for a citrusy brightness.
Use a single berry variety for a more defined flavor profile.
Top with toasted coconut or white chocolate shavings for added texture.
storage/reheating
Store No Bake Berry Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream and pudding layers may change.
Serve chilled straight from the fridge—no reheating required.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best when made the night before to allow the layers to set properly.
Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.
Is there a dairy-free version?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk, and whipped topping alternatives.
Do I need to use gelatin?
No, the gelatin layer is optional and can be skipped if you prefer a simpler version.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Chill the crust before adding layers and avoid overly juicy berries.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, just make sure it’s stabilized to maintain structure.
Can I make this in individual cups?
Absolutely, layer in small cups or jars for personal servings.
Is it overly sweet?
The balance of cream cheese, pudding, and berries keeps it mildly sweet and refreshing.
What if I don’t have pudding mix?
A homemade pastry cream or thick custard can be used as a substitute.
Can I use a springform pan instead?
Yes, for a more formal presentation, though you may need to adjust layer thickness.
Conclusion
No Bake Berry Lush is a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to love. With its cool, creamy layers and bursts of berry flavor, it’s a perfect treat for warm days or when you want something sweet without turning on the oven. Keep it simple or customize it with your favorite ingredients—it’s always a winner.
PrintNo Bake Berry Lush
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing, creamy dessert layered with berries, cream cheese, whipped topping, and a graham cracker crust – all without baking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Additional whipped topping and berries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping until combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Spread the pudding layer over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining whipped topping.
- Evenly distribute the fresh berries over the top.
- Chill the dessert for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Garnish with extra whipped topping and berries before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Use any combination of fresh berries you like.
- Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for best results.
- To lighten up, use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix.