Description

Lemon Lush is a delightful no-bake layered dessert featuring a buttery pecan crust, a creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, a tangy and fresh lemon pudding topping, and a fluffy whipped topping finish. Chilled to perfection, this easy-to-make treat combines bright citrus flavors with creamy textures, perfect for warm-weather gatherings or anytime you crave a refreshing and indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust layer.
Bake Crust: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 15–18 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden brown. Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool completely before assembling the layers.
Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully combined. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Make Lemon Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the two boxes of instant lemon pudding mix and cold milk until the pudding thickens, about 2 minutes. Spread the thickened lemon pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Add Topping: Spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the lemon pudding layer to create a smooth finish.
Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow all layers to set completely and flavors to meld.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with lemon zest or lemon slices for a decorative and fresh touch.

Notes

Make sure the crust is completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting or sliding.
You can substitute chopped walnuts for pecans if preferred.
For an extra tangy flavor, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.
Whipped topping can be homemade or store-bought; ensure it is fully thawed if using frozen.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American