Lemon Lush Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Lush Dessert is a refreshing, no-bake treat that combines layers of creamy, tangy lemon filling with a buttery, crumbly crust. It’s perfect for hot days or when you’re craving a light yet indulgent dessert. The balance of tart lemon and rich, sweet layers makes it a crowd-pleaser, and the cool, chilled texture adds to its appeal.

Ingredients

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

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cream cheese layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped topping

For the lemon layer:

• 1 package (3.4 oz) lemon instant pudding mix
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup whipped topping (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping and spread this mixture over the cooled crust.
4. In another bowl, whisk the lemon pudding mix and milk together until it thickens. Spread the lemon pudding over the cream cheese layer.
5. Top the dessert with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it evenly.
6. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add a few lemon zest shavings on top for extra citrus flavor.
• Swap the lemon pudding for lime or orange pudding for a different citrus twist.
• Add a layer of fresh berries on top of the whipped topping for added freshness and color.

Storage/Reheating

Store Lemon Lush Dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust?
Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with a shortbread or Nilla wafer crust for a different texture.

Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, Lemon Lush Dessert can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Can I use regular whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Yes, fresh whipped cream can be used instead of whipped topping for a more homemade touch.

Is this dessert gluten-free?
This version is not gluten-free due to the graham cracker crust, but you can use gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free base.

Can I freeze this dessert?
While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 weeks. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

Lemon Lush Dessert is a delightful combination of tangy lemon and creamy layers that will refresh your taste buds. Its no-bake nature makes it easy to prepare and perfect for a hot day or a special occasion. This dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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