Description
This creation is a premium, four-layer chilled treat that belongs to a beloved family of traditional American pan desserts. It is constructed systematically from the bottom up, ensuring that every spoonful offers a complete sensory experience. The foundation is a simple, baked cookie base that incorporates chopped nuts for an earthy depth and a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping
Lemon Pudding Layer
- 2 (3.4-ounce) boxes instant lemon pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
Topping
- 2 cups whipped topping
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Thin lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, sugar, and chopped pecans until crumbly.
- Press the mixture evenly into the baking dish.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then fold in 1 cup of whipped topping.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.
- Spread the lemon pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with the remaining whipped topping, smoothing it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle with fresh lemon zest and garnish with lemon slices if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before slicing and serving.
Notes
This Lemon Lush Dessert is an easy layered dessert that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, holiday dinner, or casual family meal, it’s a refreshing dessert that’s sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360 kcal