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Short description

Lemon Lush is a refreshing layered dessert featuring a buttery crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, tangy lemon pudding, and a fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for spring and summer, this no-fuss dessert is light, sweet, and full of citrusy flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that looks elegant but is surprisingly easy to make. Each layer adds a unique texture and flavor—from the crunchy crust to the smooth lemon pudding and the airy whipped topping. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you want a make-ahead dessert that keeps well in the fridge.

Lemon Lush

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup butter, melted

  • ½ cup finely chopped pecans

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

  • 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant lemon pudding mix

  • 3 cups cold milk

  • 2 cups whipped topping

  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix flour, melted butter, and pecans. Press mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
  3. Bake for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.
  4. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread evenly over cooled crust.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together lemon pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Spread over cream cheese layer.
  6. Top with remaining whipped topping and smooth evenly.
  7. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with lemon zest if desired.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 12–15 squares
  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes
  • Chill time: 2 hours
  • Total time: about 2 hours 40 minutes

Variations

  • Nut-free: Skip the pecans and just use a buttery crust.
  • Different pudding flavors: Try lime, strawberry, or even chocolate pudding for a twist.
  • Homemade whipped cream: Swap store-bought whipped topping with freshly whipped heavy cream.
  • Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in the crust.
  • Extra lemony: Add a layer of lemon curd on top of the pudding for bolder flavor.

Storage/reheating

  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Do not freeze, as the pudding and whipped topping layers don’t hold up well after thawing.
  • Best served chilled straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make Lemon Lush ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a day ahead to let the layers set.

What type of pudding works best?

Instant lemon pudding mix is recommended for the best texture.

Can I use homemade pudding?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully chilled and thickened before layering.

Do I have to add nuts to the crust?

No, the crust works with or without pecans.

How long does Lemon Lush need to chill?

At least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal.

Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, stabilized whipped cream works great.

Can I make it in smaller portions?

Yes, assemble in individual cups or jars for single servings.

What if I can’t find lemon pudding mix?

Use vanilla pudding with added lemon juice and zest for flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use two 9×13 pans or a larger sheet pan.

Can I freeze Lemon Lush?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy layers may separate after thawing.

Conclusion

Lemon Lush is a bright and creamy layered dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. With its crunchy crust, tangy lemon pudding, and smooth cream cheese filling, it’s a perfect treat for warm weather gatherings or when you crave something light yet satisfying. Once you try it, this refreshing classic is bound to become a go-to favorite.

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Lemon Lush

Lemon Lush

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  • Author: Jane
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

“Creamy, refreshing lemon lush dessert with layers of pecan crust, cream cheese, lemon pudding, and whipped topping. A crowd-pleasing classic treat.”

Ingredients

Crust:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup butter, melted

  • ½ cup finely chopped pecans

Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Lemon Layer:

  • 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant lemon pudding mix

  • 3 cups cold milk

Topping:

  • 2 cups whipped topping

  • 2 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Mix flour, melted butter, and pecans. Press into a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Bake for 15 minutes, then cool completely.

  • In a bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over cooled crust.

  • In another bowl, whisk lemon pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Spread over cream cheese layer.

  • Top with remaining whipped topping.

  • Chill at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with lemon zest if desired.

Notes

  • Can substitute graham cracker crust for the pecan crust.

  • Best served chilled—keeps in refrigerator up to 3 days.

  • Try with lime pudding for a citrus twist.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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