Easy Lemon Lush Dessert Recipe
There’s nothing like the refreshing tang of a dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness and tartness of lemons, delivering a delightful experience with each bite. This easy lemon lush dessert recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Infuse your baking repertoire with this zesty treat, and watch it become a beloved favorite.
My grandmother was the queen of desserts, and I vividly remember her kitchen brimming with the aroma of fresh lemons and flour. Lemon was her secret ingredient for spreading joy. Every Sunday, she would have a batch of her special lemon treat ready for us, each slice carrying the essence of her love and care. Now, each time I prepare this dessert, it’s like a warm hug from the past—nostalgia on a plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples making it both accessible and budget-friendly.
- Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy days, it comes together in under an hour.
- Big on Flavor: The combination of creaminess and zing gives a refreshing twist that is hard to resist.
Ingredients Notes
Our lemon lush dessert thrives on fresh lemons. Ensure your choice of lemons is vibrant, firm, and heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. If you prefer a sweeter kick, Meyer lemons are an ideal substitute due to their natural sweetness. Short on time? Use pre-squeezed lemon juice from a bottle. Just be sure it’s 100% lemon juice with no added sugars.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Prepare the Crust: Begin by crushing your favorite cookies to make the crust—graham crackers or butter cookies work perfectly. Mix with melted butter and press into a baking dish to form a firm base.
Step 2
Whip the Creamy Layer: Blend cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth, then fold in whipped topping. Layer this over the crust evenly.
Step 3
Make the Lemon Layer: Combine lemon pudding mix with milk, whisking until it starts to thicken. Spread this luscious lemon layer over the cream cheese mixture.
Step 4
Add the Topping: Dollop and spread another layer of whipped topping. Grate a lemon peel over the top or sprinkle some lemon zest for an extra zesty finish.
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Step 5
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let all the layers set and the flavors meld together perfectly.
Storage Options
Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator in a sealed container, and they’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. However, freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the creamy layers. For the crispest crust and creamiest layers, enjoy it fresh out of the fridge!
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute cookies with gluten-free alternatives. Keeping it vegan? Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping instead of regular. For a twist, infuse the creamy layer with a teaspoon of vanilla extract or sprinkle toasted coconut on top for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon lush dessert is perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or celebratory dinners. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit salad. Serve chilled in small squares as a light finish to a hearty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dessert in advance? Yes! This dish is ideal for make-ahead preparation. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just keep it stored in the fridge until serving time.
Can I substitute the lemon pudding mix? Absolutely. If lemon pudding mix is unavailable, mix cornstarch, sugar, and a bit of turmeric for color with fresh lemon juice to achieve a similar zesty flavor.
What can I do if my crust is too crumbly? If your crust appears crumbly, consider adding a bit more melted butter to bind the crumbs effectively. Firmly pressing the mixture into the dish can also ensure a solid base after chilling.
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Easy Lemon Lush Dessert Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 0.75 cups unsalted butter melted
- 0.5 cups pecans chopped
- 1 cups powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 package instant lemon pudding mix 3.4 oz size
- 3 cups milk cold
- 1 container whipped topping 8 oz, thawed
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and cold milk until thickened and smooth. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with the whipped topping and spread it evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the layers set.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
