Coconut Cream Lush Recipe
Coconut Cream Lush is a cloud-like, dreamy layered dessert that combines a golden graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese, luscious coconut pudding, and a flurry of whipped topping, all finished with a sprinkle of toasty coconut. This is the kind of treat that makes you wish summer lasted all year long! Whether you’re making it for a potluck, holiday, or just to spoil yourself a little, Coconut Cream Lush brings sunshine and pure joy to the dessert table in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Coconut Cream Lush is how it transforms humble ingredients into an undeniably decadent dessert. Each layer — from the crunchy base to the whipped, pillowy top — plays an essential role in flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
- Crushed graham crackers (1 1/2 cups): These create the buttery, golden base that holds everything together.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Gives a sweet lift to the crust so it tastes just right under the layers.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): The secret to a crust that’s never dry — binding and flavor in one go.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): For a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet layers; make sure it’s soft so it’s easy to blend!
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese without graininess — so your filling stays silky smooth.
- Whipped topping, thawed (8 ounces plus extra for garnish): Brings lightness to the layered filling and gorgeous volume on top.
- Instant coconut cream pudding mix (3.4 ounces): Delivers punchy coconut flavor and that dreamy custard-like texture.
- Cold milk (1 1/2 cups): Transforms the pudding mix into a thick, luxurious layer.
- Sweetened shredded coconut, toasted (1/2 cup): For max coconut flavor and a golden, toasty finish — don’t skip this!
How to Make Coconut Cream Lush
Step 1: Make and Bake the Graham Cracker Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter until everything is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, making sure to reach the edges for a sturdy base. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden, then allow it to cool completely — this ensures crispness beneath all those creamy layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until you achieve a completely smooth, lump-free filling. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping, blending just until combined. This layer brings richness and a light tang — spread it evenly over your cooled crust as the first creamy tier of your Coconut Cream Lush.
Step 3: Whip Up the Coconut Pudding Layer
In a clean bowl, whisk together the instant coconut cream pudding mix and cold milk for 2 to 3 minutes, or until thick and silky. This lush coconut layer sets up quickly and brings irresistible flavor. Carefully spread it over the cream cheese layer, being gentle so your beautiful strata stay defined.
Step 4: Add the Final Whipped Topping
Spoon the remaining whipped topping over the pudding, gently spreading it to the edges to completely blanket the coconut layer. This final flourish is what makes every bite so airy and indulgent.
Step 5: Toast and Sprinkle the Coconut
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Spread sweetened shredded coconut in an even layer on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once or twice, until beautifully golden. Let it cool, then shower it over your dessert, giving Coconut Cream Lush its signature appearance and nutty, toasted finish.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover your baking dish and chill the Coconut Cream Lush in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). This time allows each layer to firm up and the flavors to meld into pure dessert bliss. When you’re ready, slice into tidy squares and serve chilled — your patience is about to be richly rewarded!
How to Serve Coconut Cream Lush
Garnishes
A little extra love goes a long way! For the dreamiest finish, scoop or pipe a bit more whipped topping onto each slice, then add a generous sprinkle of toasted coconut. If you want to take it over the top, try a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a scattering of toasted almond slices.
Side Dishes
Balance Coconut Cream Lush’s creamy richness with something fresh. Bright berries (like raspberries or sliced strawberries) offer tart contrast, while a scoop of tangy lemon sorbet works wonders on a summer day. For even more decadence, serve with crisp butter cookies on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
You’re not limited to the 9×9 pan! Serve Coconut Cream Lush in mason jars or small glass cups for an adorable, portable treat, or cut tiny squares and arrange them on a platter for a dessert buffet. For special occasions, add edible flowers or tropical fruits as a show-stopping topper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Coconut Cream Lush actually improves after a night in the fridge, as the layers meld and set. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The crust stays delicious, and the creamy layers remain irresistible.
Freezing
While best fresh, Coconut Cream Lush can be frozen if you’re really planning ahead! Wrap individual squares well or cover the whole dish tightly and freeze for up to one month. Allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving so the texture stays as close to perfect as possible.
Reheating
No reheating needed here — Coconut Cream Lush is meant to be enjoyed cold and creamy! In fact, that cool, soft texture is part of its charm and makes it so refreshing for warm days or after hearty meals.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! Crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies make delicious substitutes for graham crackers, each bringing their own unique sweetness and texture. Just keep the basic process and measurements the same.
How do I get clean layers and neat slices?
The key is to let your Coconut Cream Lush chill completely so it firms up for tidy cutting. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (and wiped dry) before each cut — you’ll be amazed at how neatly it slices!
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Definitely! Fresh, softly whipped cream brings an extra touch of luxury. Just beat 1 cup of heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Use it in place of the whipped topping for all layers and garnish.
What can I do if I can’t find instant coconut cream pudding mix?
If instant coconut cream pudding isn’t available, substitute with vanilla pudding mix plus a few drops of coconut extract and a handful of shredded coconut mixed in. The coconut flavor won’t be quite as bold, but it’s delicious in a pinch!
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Traditional Coconut Cream Lush uses graham crackers in the crust, which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free graham crackers or substitute with another gluten-free cookie base, and double-check your pudding mix just to be safe.
Final Thoughts
If you love coconut and crave desserts that are creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-satisfying, you simply have to try Coconut Cream Lush. With its tantalizing layers and tropical flair, it’s guaranteed to brighten any occasion — and win you fans every time you share it!
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Coconut Cream Lush Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 9 squares 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, dreamy layers of Coconut Cream Lush. A no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cream cheese and coconut pudding filling, topped with whipped cream and toasted coconut for a tropical twist.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant coconut cream pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted
- Extra whipped topping for layering and garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool completely.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping until well combined. Spread this layer evenly over the cooled crust.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut cream pudding mix and cold milk for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining whipped topping and sprinkle toasted shredded coconut over the top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- To toast the coconut, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
- You can substitute crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for the graham cracker crust.
- For extra coconut flavor, add a few drops of coconut extract to the pudding layer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (plus optional baking for crust)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
