Lemon Lush Dessert is a refreshing, layered treat that perfectly balances the tartness of lemon with creamy sweetness.
This no-bake dessert features a buttery, crumbly crust, followed by a velvety cream cheese layer, a tangy lemon pudding, and topped with fluffy whipped cream.
It's the ideal dessert for warm weather, offering a light, zesty flavor that’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Whether you're hosting a gathering or just craving something citrusy, Lemon Lush is a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and disappears just as fast!
- Ingredients
Crust
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 cup nuts (pecans or walnuts), chopped finely
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
Cream Cheese Layer
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
Pudding Layer
2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding
3 cups cold milk
Top Layer
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
Optional garnish: chopped nuts, lemon zest, lemon slices
- How To Make
For the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
Spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, chopped nuts, and butter. Mix until well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Cream Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and whipped topping until well combined.
Spread the mixture over the cooled crust.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Pudding Layer
In a large bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and creamy.
Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or until the pudding is set.
Final Layer
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the set pudding layer.
If desired, garnish with additional chopped nuts, lemon zest, or lemon slices.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serving and Storage
Serve the Lemon Lush chilled, cut into squares.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, ensuring they are covered to maintain freshness.
Tips for making the perfect Lemon Lush Dessert :
Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the dessert a vibrant, natural flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it can have a different taste and may not provide the same zesty punch.
Chill Layers Properly: After assembling the layers, refrigerate the dessert for several hours, or overnight if possible, to ensure it sets properly and the flavors meld together.
Crush the Crust Well: For a smooth and firm crust, make sure to crush the graham crackers or cookies finely, and pack the crumbs tightly when pressing them into the pan. This helps create a sturdy base that won’t crumble when served.
Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: For a rich, creamy layer, use full-fat cream cheese rather than a lighter version. It gives the dessert a thicker, smoother texture that holds up well with the other layers.
Make It Ahead: Lemon Lush Dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. It actually tastes better after it sits for a few hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the layers to set beautifully.
Top with Fresh Whipped Cream: While store-bought whipped topping works fine, homemade whipped cream can take the dessert to the next level. Whip heavy cream with a little powdered sugar for a light and fluffy topping.
Add Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, sprinkle some lemon zest over the whipped cream topping. It not only adds flavor but also gives the dessert a pretty, decorative finish.
Experiment with Different Crusts: While a graham cracker crust is classic, you can experiment with other options like crushed shortbread cookies or even vanilla wafers for a unique twist.
Serve Chilled: Lemon Lush is best served chilled, so keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy. It’s a cool and refreshing dessert, perfect for warm days!
These tips will ensure your Lemon Lush Dessert is as fresh, creamy, and tangy as possible. Enjoy!
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