The Perfect Patriotic Dessert

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious, this Red, White, and Blue Lush is the perfect treat! Layered with vibrant colors, creamy textures, and irresistible flavors, this no-bake dessert is an ideal choice for summer gatherings, Fourth of July celebrations, Memorial Day, or anytime you want to show off some patriotic pride. Packed with the creamy richness of pudding and cream cheese, the bright flavors of cherry and blue raspberry, and a buttery Oreo crust, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is perfect for:

• Busy hosts who need an impressive yet easy dessert.
• Families looking for a fun treat to make together.
• Anyone who loves vibrant, Instagram-worthy desserts that taste as good as they look.

What makes it special? It’s completely no-bake, so you don’t need to heat up your kitchen, and the layering process makes it as fun to assemble as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to create this layered delight:

For the Crust:

• 36 vanilla Oreo cookies
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Layers:

• 3 oz. cherry-flavored Jello
• 3 oz. blue raspberry-flavored Jello
• 2/3 cup boiling water, divided
• 2 boxes (3.4 oz. each) vanilla instant pudding
• 2 ½ cups cold milk
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 16 oz. whipped topping, divided

For Garnish:

• Red, white, and blue sprinkles

Equipment Needed

Before you get started, gather these kitchen essentials:

• Food processor (or a sturdy zip-top bag and rolling pin for crushing cookies)
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowls (at least 2)
• Electric mixer
• 9×13 glass baking dish
• Whisk or spoon for mixing
• Rubber spatula

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Make the Crust

1. Crush the vanilla Oreo cookies in a food processor until they’re fine crumbs. (Alternatively, place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.)
2. Transfer the crumbs to a large bowl and stir in the melted butter until fully combined.
3. Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 glass baking dish to form an even crust. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Fillings

1. In a small bowl, combine the cherry-flavored Jello with 1/3 cup boiling water. Whisk until the gelatin is dissolved. Repeat this step in a separate bowl with the blue raspberry Jello.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth.
3. Divide the pudding mixture evenly between the two bowls of Jello. Stir until the colors are evenly blended to create red and blue layers.

3. Create the Cream Cheese Layer

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until well combined.
3. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cookie crust in an even layer.

4. Assemble the Layers

1. Carefully spread the red (cherry) layer over the cream cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid mixing the layers.
2. Next, spread the blue (blue raspberry) layer over the red layer.
3. Top the entire dessert with the remaining whipped topping.

5. Garnish and Chill

1. Sprinkle the top with red, white, and blue sprinkles for a festive touch.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Crust Tip: Press the crust firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together. You can use the bottom of a measuring cup to press it evenly.
• Layering Tip: Use a spoon to gently dollop each layer before spreading it. This helps keep the layers clean and distinct.
• Make-Ahead: This dessert can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making it a great option for parties.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Swap the vanilla Oreos for chocolate Oreos.
• Flavor Switch-Up: Try strawberry Jello instead of cherry for a different red layer.
• Holiday Twist: Change the Jello colors to match other holidays (e.g., green and red for Christmas).

How to Store Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. The dessert will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade whipped cream, beat 2 cups of heavy cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Use it as a substitute for the whipped topping.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free sandwich cookies for the crust, and ensure your Jello and pudding mixes are certified gluten-free.

What should I serve with Red, White, and Blue Lush?

Pair this dessert with a refreshing summer drink like lemonade, iced tea, or a sparkling mocktail. It also complements grilled dishes perfectly, making it an ideal finale for a BBQ.

Conclusion

This Red, White, and Blue Lush is the ultimate patriotic dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Its colorful layers, creamy textures, and simple preparation make it a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July bash, celebrating Memorial Day, or just want to brighten up a summer weekend, this lush dessert will have everyone asking for seconds.

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