Name: Grinch Cheesecake Lush Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package vanilla Oreo cookies; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, divided; Green food coloring; 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix; 3 cups cold milk; 1 tsp peppermint extract; Red food coloring; Remaining whipped topping; Green food coloring; Green and heart sprinkles, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 11 reviews

If you’re searching for something playful, whimsical, and absolutely irresistible, you need to try Grinch Cheesecake Lush. This is not just a dessert; it’s a festive showstopper layered with minty pink pudding, a vibrant green cheesecake filling, and a buttery vanilla cookie crust. Every bite is creamy, dreamy, and packed with holiday cheer. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, making your table the talk of the season, and (let’s be honest) sneaking a forkful straight from the fridge when nobody’s looking.

Grinch Cheesecake Lush Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of making Grinch Cheesecake Lush is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays a unique role in creating luscious layers and those instantly recognizable holiday colors in this crowd-pleasing treat.

Vanilla Oreo cookies: These create a sweet, sturdy crust that holds all the luscious layers beautifully.
Butter (melted): Blends with the cookie crumbs to hold the crust together and add a rich, buttery note.
Cream cheese (softened): Delivers a tangy, smooth base for the cheesecake layer—room temperature is key for easy mixing!
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese without adding gritty texture.
Whipped topping (thawed, divided): Adds a light, airy finish to your cheesecake and top layers; make sure it’s thawed for smooth folding.
Green food coloring: Gives the signature Grinch-y hue to the cheesecake and whipped topping layers.
Instant vanilla pudding mix: A creamy, classic pudding that blends perfectly with the peppermint and red food coloring.
Instant white chocolate pudding mix: Adds extra richness and creaminess to the pudding layer.
Cold milk: Helps the pudding set up fast; make sure it’s cold for the best results.
Peppermint extract: Brings a punch of cool, festive flavor to the pink pudding layer.
Red food coloring: Gives the pudding that unmistakable Grinch heart–inspired pink color.
Green and heart-shaped sprinkles: The finishing holiday touch—go as festive as you like!
Parchment paper: Makes removing and slicing your lush a breeze.

How to Make Grinch Cheesecake Lush

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start your Grinch Cheesecake Lush off right by crushing your vanilla Oreo cookies until they’re fine, sandy crumbs. This works beautifully in a food processor, but a large bag and rolling pin will get the job done in a pinch. Mix in melted butter until every crumb is glistening, then press the mixture firmly into your parchment-lined 9×13 inch dish. This base sets the stage for every dreamy bite and ensures your layers stay neat and tidy.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until perfectly smooth. Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping, then add green food coloring a few drops at a time until you reach a bold, Grinch-inspired green. Spread this velvety cheesecake layer evenly over your chilled cookie crust for a stunning vibrant effect.

Step 3: Mix the Pink Pudding Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk both the instant vanilla and white chocolate pudding mixes with cold milk until thickened. Stir in a dash of peppermint extract for that signature holiday zing, then add red food coloring to turn the pudding a merry pink. Pour and smooth this pudding layer right over the green cheesecake for maximum color contrast and flavor.

Step 4: Top with Whipped Green Clouds

Take your remaining whipped topping and tint it with a few drops of green food coloring. Spread this minty-green goodness over the pink pudding layer, using swoops and swirls for an extra touch of fun. This final layer gives the dessert its signature look and fluffy finish.

Step 5: Decorate and Chill

Sprinkle the top liberally with green and heart-shaped sprinkles—this is where your inner Grinch transforms into a holiday hero! Once decorated, cover and refrigerate for at least four hours. This chilling time is essential, allowing the layers to set and meld together into pure creamy bliss.

How to Serve Grinch Cheesecake Lush

Garnishes

The real magic is in the details! Go wild with green sanding sugar, tiny heart sprinkles, or even crushed peppermint candies for a pop of color and crunch. A scatter of red and white chocolate curls makes each slice look extra festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

Since Grinch Cheesecake Lush is delightfully rich, pair it with a mug of hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or a platter of fresh berries to balance out all that creamy sweetness. For a holiday party, serve alongside a platter of simple sugar cookies or spiced nuts to round out the spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of a simple 9×13 pan, try layering Grinch Cheesecake Lush in individual jars or trifle glasses for an eye-catching, portable treat. You can also cut it into fun shapes with cookie cutters or add a holiday-themed cake topper right on top of the pan for that wow factor at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Grinch Cheesecake Lush (lucky you!), cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days without losing its lovely texture.

Freezing

While Grinch Cheesecake Lush can be frozen, the texture of the whipped topping and pudding may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, wrap tightly in plastic followed by foil, and store for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best results.

Reheating

Luckily, this dessert is meant to be served cold—no need for reheating! If it’s been frozen, just let it thaw in the fridge until it’s fully chilled and creamy again. Serve straight from the fridge for the tastiest texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While vanilla Oreos provide a deliciously sweet and sturdy base, graham crackers or golden sandwich cookies can work well in a pinch. Just be sure to use the same ratio of crumbs to melted butter for best results.

Can I make Grinch Cheesecake Lush ahead of time?

Yes—this dessert is a make-ahead superstar! In fact, chilling overnight not only helps the layers set but allows the flavors to mingle beautifully. Just add your final sprinkles right before serving for the freshest look.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

No worries! Substitute with vanilla extract for a classic, creamy flavor profile. You’ll lose the minty holiday kick, but the Grinch Cheesecake Lush will still be irresistibly good.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Homemade whipped cream can be substituted, but stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar or unflavored gelatin if possible. This will help maintain the layers and prevent any weeping as the dessert sits.

How do I get clean slices?

For professional-looking slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut. This helps glide cleanly through each luscious layer of Grinch Cheesecake Lush.

Final Thoughts

This Grinch Cheesecake Lush is so much more than just a dessert—it’s pure holiday fun, guaranteed to make everyone smile (maybe even the Grinch himself). I hope you’ll give it a try this season and watch it disappear faster than you can say “Who-ville!” Gather your ingredients, embrace those vibrant layers, and treat yourself to something truly special.