Description
This Lemon Lush Dessert is a delightful no-bake layered treat featuring a buttery crust, creamy lemon pudding, and a smooth cream cheese layer topped with fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for a refreshing, tangy dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter
For the Filling
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant lemon pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cold unsalted butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press and Bake: Press the crumbly mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Prepare Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk the instant lemon pudding mix with 1 1/2 cups of milk until the pudding thickens. Set aside.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Layers: Once the crust has fully cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust, then carefully layer the thickened lemon pudding over the cream cheese layer.
- Add Topping and Chill: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to allow it to set and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice into 12 pieces and serve chilled. Enjoy the refreshing and tangy Lemon Lush Dessert!
Notes
- Ensure the crust is completely cooled before adding the cream cheese and pudding layers to prevent melting or mixing.
- For a richer texture, use full-fat cream cheese and whipping cream topping.
- Refrigerate for longer than 2 hours if possible for a firmer set and more developed flavors.
- This dessert can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to garnish with lemon zest or fresh lemon slices for an extra citrusy appeal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
