Why You’ll Love Birthday Cake Lush Dessert Recipe

If you adore birthday cake flavor but want something easier and cooler than a traditional cake, this lush dessert is for you. It’s layered with sweet textures and vibrant sprinkles that make it look as delightful as it tastes. Being no-bake and simple to assemble means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time celebrating.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Oreo Cookie Crust
Golden Oreos
Melted butter

Funfetti Cheesecake Layer
Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Dry yellow cake mix
Vanilla extract
Cool Whip
Rainbow funfetti sprinkles

Vanilla Pudding Layer
Instant vanilla pudding mix
Milk or half and half

Whipped Cream Topping
Cool Whip
Rainbow funfetti sprinkles

Directions

Make the Oreo cookie crust: Crush the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs, then mix with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish and chill in the freezer for about 15 minutes.
Prepare the funfetti cheesecake layer: In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, dry cake mix, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the Cool Whip and funfetti sprinkles gently. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Make the pudding layer: Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with milk or half and half until it begins to thicken. Let it sit a few minutes, then spread it over the cheesecake layer.
Add the whipped topping: Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the pudding layer. Chill the assembled dessert in the refrigerator for at least 6–8 hours, or overnight if possible.
Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle more funfetti sprinkles on top for a festive finish.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 18 slices
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Chill time: At least 6–8 hours (overnight preferred)
Total time: ~6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Chocolate birthday lush: Use chocolate cookie crust instead of Golden Oreos and chocolate pudding for a cocoa twist.
Seasonal sprinkles: Swap funfetti sprinkles for themed colors (red/green for Christmas, pastel for Easter).
Homemade whipped cream: Replace Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream for a richer texture.
Fruit addition: Add a layer of fresh berries between the pudding and whipped topping for a fruity balance.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the dessert covered in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4–5 days.
Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and should not be heated; warming can soften the layers and change the texture.

FAQs

What is a “lush” dessert?

A lush dessert is a layered dessert combining creamy elements like pudding and whipped topping, often over a cookie or cake crust.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal to make this the night before so the layers can set firmly before serving.

Do I have to use Cool Whip?

No, homemade whipped cream is a great substitute and can elevate the flavor.

Can I use regular Oreos instead of Golden Oreos?

Yes, regular Oreos will work and give a chocolate crust instead of vanilla.

Why do I need to chill it for so long?

Chilling helps the layers firm up and makes it easier to slice neatly.

Can I substitute the pudding flavor?

Yes, French vanilla or white chocolate pudding work well too.

What size pan should I use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is recommended to fit all the layers evenly.

Can I freeze Birthday Cake Lush?

Freezing isn’t recommended due to the creamy layers, which can become watery when thawed.

How do I prevent sprinkles from bleeding color?

Add sprinkles right before serving to keep colors bright and prevent bleeding into the creamy layers.

Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Absolutely — the funfetti colors and sweet flavors make it especially popular with kids.

Conclusion

Birthday Cake Lush is a show-stopping no-bake dessert that brings all the joy of birthday cake into a creamy layered dish. Easy to make ahead, endlessly customizable, and perfect for parties or special occasions, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.