Description
Orange Lush Dessert is a delicious, no-bake layered treat featuring a vanilla wafer crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese, smooth vanilla pudding, and vibrant orange gelatin topping. This refreshing American dessert is perfect for gatherings and can be prepared ahead of time for convenience.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups crushed vanilla wafer cookies or graham crackers
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk (divided: 1 cup for pudding, 1/2 cup for gelatin)
Gelatin Layer
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant orange gelatin (like Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Garnish
- Additional whipped topping
- Orange slices (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the crushed vanilla wafers and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. Fold in half of the whipped topping gently and then spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
- Prepare the pudding layer: In another bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with 1 cup of cold milk until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Spread this pudding layer over the cream cheese layer smoothly.
- Make the gelatin layer: In a separate bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup of cold water and allow the mixture to cool for 10 to 15 minutes until it is slightly thickened but still pourable.
- Assemble the layers: Carefully pour or spoon the cooled orange gelatin mixture over the pudding layer, ensuring an even layer without disturbing the layers below.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours until it is fully set and firm.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, spread the remaining whipped topping over the top layer. Garnish with orange zest or fresh orange slices if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For extra citrus flavor, substitute vanilla pudding with orange-flavored pudding.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be made a day in advance, making it convenient for entertaining.
- Using a clear glass dish showcases the beautiful, colorful layers and enhances visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
