A Cool, Creamy, Layered Dessert That Screams Summer Bliss
Alright, lemon lovers—get ready to meet your new dessert crush. This Lemon Lush is the kind of treat that hits all the right notes: buttery, crunchy crust… silky cream cheese layer… zesty lemon pudding… and a fluffy whipped topping that ties it all together. It’s light yet indulgent, refreshing yet rich, and honestly? It’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast at any gathering. Trust me, this one’s a keeper—you’ll be asked for the recipe every single time.
Why You’ll Love Lemon Lush
Cool & Creamy: Perfect for hot days when you need something refreshing but decadent.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Even better after chilling overnight—hello, stress-free dessert!
Layered Perfection: Every bite delivers texture, flavor, and that dreamy lemon zing.
Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy here—just everyday staples that turn into something magical.
Total Crowd-Pleaser: Kids love it, adults rave about it… you might want to double the batch.
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Ingredients in Lemon Lush
Here’s what makes this dessert so dreamy, layer by layer:
Buttery Crust
Typically made with crushed shortbread cookies or flour, butter, and chopped pecans—baked until golden and crisp.
Cream Cheese Layer
Softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a bit of whipped topping come together to create a smooth, tangy-sweet filling that balances the tart lemon.
Lemon Pudding
Instant lemon pudding (yep, the boxed kind!) gives this dessert its signature citrus zing and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Whipped Topping
A cloud of whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy) finishes things off with a light, fluffy flourish.
Optional Garnishes
Lemon zest, crushed cookies, or fresh berries make beautiful and tasty toppers.
Instructions
Let’s build this beauty, one luscious layer at a time:
Preheat Your Oven
Set it to 350°F (175°C) to get your crust nice and golden.
Make the Crust
Mix crushed cookies (or flour and pecans) with melted butter. Press firmly into a baking dish and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly browned. Let it cool completely.
Cream Cheese Layer
Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, then fold in whipped topping. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
Lemon Layer
Whisk instant lemon pudding mix with cold milk until thick. Pour over the cream cheese layer and smooth it out.
Final Whipped Topping
Spread more whipped topping on top, sealing all edges. Chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with lemon zest or crushed cookies just before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours minimum
Total Time: About 4 hours 35 minutes
How to Serve Lemon Lush
- Chilled: Always serve cold—it’s meant to be cool and creamy.
- With Fresh Fruit: Berries or thin lemon slices add a nice finishing touch.
- In Individual Cups: For parties, layer into clear cups for a cute, no-mess option.
- With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Adds a little extra sweetness and elegance.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Rush the Chill Time: Letting it sit in the fridge helps the layers firm up and flavors meld.
- Make it Ahead: Prep the night before for a totally stress-free dessert.
- Want it Zingier? Add fresh lemon juice or zest to the pudding layer.
- Use Homemade Whipped Cream: For a richer taste, whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Swap the Crust: Try a graham cracker crust or golden Oreos for a fun twist.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use homemade pudding?
A1: Absolutely! Just make sure it sets well so the layers stay defined.
Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
A2: Yes, just use a gluten-free crust base and check your pudding mix.
Q3: Can I freeze Lemon Lush?
A3: Technically yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh from the fridge for optimal texture.
Q4: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A4: Up to 4 days, tightly covered. The crust may soften over time.
Q5: What size pan should I use?
A5: A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for the standard recipe.
Q6: Can I add extra lemon?
A6: Oh yes! Zest and a squeeze of fresh juice will amp up the brightness.
Q7: Can I make it with other pudding flavors?
A7: Sure! Try strawberry, lime, or even banana for a fruity twist.
Q8: Is there a low-fat version?
A8: Use light cream cheese, sugar-free pudding, and light whipped topping to lighten it up.
Q9: Can I use fresh whipped cream?
A9: Definitely! Just make sure it’s stabilized if you plan to store it for a while.
Q10: Can I layer this in a trifle dish?
A10: Yes! It makes a beautiful layered dessert in a glass bowl.
Conclusion
Lemon Lush is a dreamy, creamy dessert that brings brightness, texture, and a whole lot of love to your table. Whether it’s for a holiday, a summer BBQ, or just a weekend treat, this layered beauty never disappoints. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s called lush.
Print
Lemon Lush
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus 4 hrs chill time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Lush is a light and refreshing layered dessert with a pecan shortbread crust, a tangy lemon pudding filling, and a smooth cream cheese layer topped with whipped topping.
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- Lemon Layer:
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- Topping:
- 2 cups whipped topping
- Optional: lemon zest or slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans until crumbly. Press mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form crust.
- Bake crust for 15–18 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup whipped topping. Spread over cooled crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together lemon pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Spread over cream cheese layer.
- Top with remaining whipped topping and smooth evenly.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
- Garnish with lemon zest or slices before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Substitute shortbread cookies or graham crackers for the crust if preferred.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice in homemade pudding for a natural twist.
- Great make-ahead dessert for summer gatherings or potlucks.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake + Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg