Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup whipped topping
Pudding Layer:
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
Final Layer:
- 1 cup whipped topping
- Optional garnishes: additional chopped nuts, lemon zest, fresh lemon slices
Equipment:
- 13×9 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Refrigerator for chilling
Instructions:
For the Crust:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray your 13×9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, chopped nuts, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool completely in the dish on a wire rack.
Cream Cheese Layer:
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing until incorporated.
- Add Whipped Topping: Gently fold in whipped topping until the mixture is smooth.
- Spread Over Crust: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
Pudding Layer:
- Prepare Pudding: Whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl until the pudding is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Layer Over Cream Cheese: Carefully spread the pudding over the set cream cheese layer. Chill again for at least 15 minutes, or until the pudding is firm.
Final Layer:
- Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the set pudding layer.
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with additional chopped nuts, lemon zest, or decorate with lemon slices.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to fully set before serving.
Serving and Storage:
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled.
- Store: Place any leftovers in a covered container and refrigerate. Consume within 3 days.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Lush:
- Extract Maximum Juice: Roll lemons under your palm on a countertop before juicing to get the most out of them.
- Smooth Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: For best flavor, use homemade whipped cream if possible. Otherwise, a good quality store-bought whipped topping works well.
- Gentle Folding: When incorporating lemon juice and zest into the cream cheese, fold gently to maintain the airiness of the whipped topping.
- Sufficient Chilling: Allow adequate chilling time for each layer to ensure the dessert sets properly and flavors meld.
Why You’ll Love This:
- Flavorful and Refreshing: The zesty lemon flavor combined with creamy layers makes for a delightfully refreshing dessert.
- Visually Appealing: With its distinct and attractive layers, this dessert not only tastes great but also looks impressive for gatherings.
- Adaptable: Easily substitute ingredients to cater to dietary needs like gluten-free or low-carb options.
Enjoy creating and indulging in this luscious Lemon Lush Dessert, perfect for any occasion or simply as a treat to brighten your day!
