Cherry Pecan Cheesecake Lush (Print Version)

Layered cheesecake dessert with cherry filling and toasted pecans for a creamy, crowd-pleasing treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Pecan Crust

01 - 190 grams crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers
02 - 90 grams pecans, finely chopped and lightly toasted
03 - 115 grams unsalted butter, melted
04 - 25 grams granulated sugar

→ Cheesecake Layer

05 - 225 grams cream cheese, softened
06 - 60 grams powdered sugar
07 - 5 millilitres pure vanilla extract
08 - 15 millilitres lemon juice
09 - 360 millilitres whipped topping

→ Cherry Layer

10 - 595 grams cherry pie filling
11 - 2.5 millilitres almond extract (optional)

→ Topping Layer

12 - 480 millilitres whipped topping
13 - 30 grams toasted pecans, chopped
14 - 3 fresh cherries, for garnish (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Combine crushed graham crackers, toasted pecans, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the base of a 23 x 33 centimetre baking dish using the back of a spoon or flat measuring cup. For a no-bake crust, refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes until set. For a firmer texture, bake at 175°C for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
02 - With an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice; beat until light and fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
03 - If desired, stir almond extract into the cherry pie filling for enhanced flavour. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over the cheesecake layer, taking care to keep the layers distinct.
04 - Spread the remaining whipped topping smoothly over the cherry layer. Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top and garnish with fresh cherries if desired. Refrigerate for several hours before slicing for clean layers.

# Notes:

01 - For crispier crust, opt for baking rather than chilling. Cheesecake is best served well chilled for clean slices and optimal texture.

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