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Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush

A delightful layered dessert combining sweet-tart cherry filling, creamy cheesecake, and a crunchy pecan crust, perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 2 cups Crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers
  • 1 cup Finely chopped pecans Lightly toasted for enhanced flavor
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
For the cheesecake layer
  • 2 packages Cream cheese, softened Room temperature for easy mixing
  • 1 cup Powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
  • 1.5 cups Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the cherry layer
  • 1 can Cherry pie filling Add almond extract for extra flavor, if desired
For topping
  • 2 cups Whipped topping
  • 1/2 cup Chopped toasted pecans For garnish
  • Fresh cherries For garnish

Method
 

Prepare the Pecan Crust
  1. Combine the crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers with finely chopped pecans, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand with no dry patches.
  2. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  3. Chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes until firm or bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes for a firmer crust. Allow to cool fully if baked.
Make the Cheesecake Layer
  1. Beat softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer until smooth and no lumps remain.
  2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice; continue mixing until everything is fluffy and light.
  3. Gently fold in 1.5 cups of whipped topping until you see a consistent pale creamy mixture.
  4. Spread evenly over the cooled or chilled crust using a spatula.
Add the Cherry Layer
  1. Carefully spoon one can of cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer, spreading gently to avoid mixing the layers.
  2. If desired, add a dash of almond extract to the pie filling before layering.
Add the Final Whipped Topping Layer
  1. Spread 2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the cherries using an offset spatula for a smooth finish.
Garnish and Chill
  1. Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans over the whipped topping.
  2. Add fresh cherries for a decorative touch.
  3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dish for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Notes

For clean slices, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts. This dessert can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.