Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If using frozen berries, thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid with a paper towel to avoid a soggy dessert. Frozen berries are more economical and can be used year-round, though the texture will be a bit softer than fresh.

Can I substitute homemade whipped cream for whipped topping?

Definitely! Whip up heavy cream with a touch of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form and use it in place of the store-bought topping. This adds a richer flavor and lovely homemade touch.

What should I do if my crust is too crumbly?

If your crust feels dry or isn’t sticking together, add another tablespoon or two of melted butter and press the mixture into the pan again. It should hold its shape when you press it down firmly.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! In fact, prepping it a day before you plan to serve lets the layers set perfectly and improves the flavor. Just be sure to keep it well covered in the fridge until ready to enjoy.

No-Bake Berry Lush Recipe

Description

This No-Bake Berry Lush is a delightfully easy, creamy layered dessert featuring a vanilla wafer crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, light whipped topping, and an abundance of fresh berries. Perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you need a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing treat, this no-bake recipe requires simple ingredients and comes together in just minutes before chilling.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Crust

35 vanilla wafer cookies
5 tablespoons butter, melted

Cream Cheese Layer

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed

Berry Layer

2 lbs fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix)

Topping

1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed (remaining half for topping)
Extra wafer cookies, crumbled (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Make the Crust: Place the vanilla wafer cookies in a large ziptop bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin. Transfer the crumbs to an 8-inch square baking pan, add the melted butter, and stir until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in one container of thawed whipped topping until well combined.
Slice the Berries: If you are using larger berries, such as strawberries, slice them as desired. Leave small berries whole for easy layering.
Layer the Dessert: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Then add half of the berries in an even layer over the cream cheese. Repeat with the remaining cream cheese mixture and berries, creating a second layer of each.
Add Final Topping: Spread half of the remaining tub of whipped topping evenly over the berry layer. For a finishing touch, sprinkle crumbled vanilla wafer cookies over the top if desired.
Chill and Serve: Cover the pan and refrigerate the dessert for at least 1 hour to allow it to set. Slice into portions and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Notes

You can use any combination of fresh berries depending on preference and seasonal availability.
For a firmer crust, refrigerate or freeze the crust layer for 10–15 minutes before adding the fillings.
Allow the dessert to chill for several hours for the best texture and flavor.
This dessert is best served cold and can be made a day in advance.
Substitute gluten-free cookies to make this recipe gluten-free.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 410
Sugar: 29g
Sodium: 330mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 40mg