Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush (Print Version)
Creamy cheesecake with layers of cherry filling and toasted pecans for a luscious, crowd-pleasing dessert.
# Ingredients:
→ Pecan Crust
01 -
1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers
02 -
3/4 cup finely chopped pecans, lightly toasted
03 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
04 -
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
→ Cheesecake Layer
05 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
06 -
1/2 cup powdered sugar
07 -
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
08 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice
09 -
1 1/2 cups whipped topping
→ Cherry Layer
10 -
21 ounces cherry pie filling
11 -
1/2 teaspoon almond extract, optional
→ Topping Layer
12 -
2 cups whipped topping
13 -
1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
14 -
3 fresh cherries, for garnish, optional
# Steps:
01 -
In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, toasted pecans, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture has the texture of wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with the back of a spoon or a flat measuring cup. For a no-bake version, refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until set. For a firmer base, bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, then cool completely.
02 -
Beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth. Blend in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice; mix until light and fluffy. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups whipped topping until fully combined. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the prepared and cooled crust.
03 -
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer, taking care not to mix the layers. For enhanced cherry flavor, stir in almond extract to the filling before spreading.
04 -
Spread 2 cups whipped topping evenly across the cherry layer. Use an offset spatula to smooth the surface for an elegant finish.
05 -
Sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans and, if desired, garnish with fresh cherries. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.
# Notes:
01 -
Toasting the pecans prior to incorporating them into the crust intensifies their flavor. For a lump-free filling, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before blending.
02 -
For variety, substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berry filling as desired.