This Recipe for Lemon Lush Dessert is a must-try for anyone who loves the bright and zesty flavors of lemon paired with creamy, indulgent layers. Unlike traditional lemon and Cool Whip desserts, this lemon lush recipe features real whipped cream for a more decadent, homemade touch. The dessert starts with a buttery flour and nut crust, providing the perfect foundation for the creamy layers. A smooth blend of cream cheese and whipped cream forms the middle layer, followed by a tangy lemon pudding that adds a refreshing burst of flavor. The final touch is a layer of whipped cream topped with chopped nuts, creating a show-stopping layered lemon dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
If you’re a fan of light, lemony desserts with a buttery, shortbread-like crust, and creamy layers, you’ll fall in love with this Lemon Lush Dessert! It’s the perfect combination of tangy lemon pudding, fluffy whipped cream, and a smooth cream cheese layer, resting on a melt-in-your-mouth crust packed with buttery, nutty goodness.
If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances zesty lemon flavor with creamy, indulgent layers, look no further than the classic Lemon Lush Dessert. This delightful treat has been a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks for decades, offering a refreshing and satisfying end to any meal.
This recipe is definitely a classic—it came straight from my mom’s cookbook! She even has another version she clipped from a newspaper recipe column years ago, hilariously titled Lemon Lust. I couldn’t help but laugh when I saw that name! It just goes to show how long this delightful dessert has been a favorite in kitchens everywhere. Here’s a little backstory on this timeless treat!
What is Lemon Lush
Lemon Lush is a layered dessert that starts with a buttery, nutty crust, followed by a sweetened cream cheese layer, a tangy lemon pudding layer, and is topped off with a fluffy whipped cream topping. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that are sure to please any crowd.
The Origins of Lemon Lush
The exact origin of Lemon Lush is hard to pin down, but desserts like it became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century, around the 1950s and 60s. This was when pudding mix and Cool Whip-style toppings started to gain traction as convenient ingredients for no-bake or easy-to-assemble treats. Recipes like Lemon Lush were often shared in community cookbooks, church gatherings, and women’s magazine columns, making them beloved staples in American homes. It’s thought to have Midwest roots, where layered desserts like this were especially popular.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Lush Recipe
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of tangy lemon pudding and sweet cream cheese offers a perfect balance that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
- Textural Delight: The crunchy, nutty crust pairs beautifully with the creamy layers above, providing a delightful contrast in every bite.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its light and airy composition makes it an ideal dessert for gatherings, ensuring guests leave with a sweet impression.
How Easy Is It to Make Lemon Lush?
Lemon Lush is surprisingly simple to prepare, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. The recipe uses basic ingredients and requires minimal prep work, thanks to the convenience of instant pudding and whipped cream. Plus, since it’s a no-bake dessert after the crust is ready, there’s no need to fuss over a hot oven or complicated steps. The hardest part might be waiting for it to chill before digging in!
Lemon Lush Dessert Recipe
Note my photos show the larger baking pan, but I feel that the smaller 8″x 8″ pan is more my size. The larger 9″x13″ serves an army. So, depending on the size, you must choose either the smaller or larger baking pan.
Ingredients:
- Butter: Used to create a rich and buttery base for the crust. Soften it for easy mixing.
- Flour: The foundation of the crust, giving it structure and a shortbread-like texture.
- Nuts: Chopped nuts add a toasty crunch to the crust, complementing the creamy layers.
- Cream Cheese: This creates a tangy and creamy second layer that balances the lemon flavor.
- Whip Cream: Adds lightness and fluffiness throughout the dessert. Use freshly whipped cream for the best flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer without adding graininess.
- Lemon Pudding Mix: Provides that bright, zesty lemon flavor that defines this dessert.
- Milk: Whisk together with the pudding mix to create a smooth and creamy lemon layer.
- Topping (Whip Cream): A final layer of whipped cream makes the dessert light and airy.
Instructions:
Step 1 – Make Crust:
Combine butter (softened) with flour and nuts in a mixing bowl. Mix well until crumbly, then press into an 8″x 8″ pan. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes and let cool.
Step 2 – Mix Second Layer:
Combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar in a bowl. Fold in lemon zest. Mix until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
Step 3 – Mix Pudding:
Whisk together milk and lemon pudding mix until thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 4 – Whip Cream:
Whip up fresh whip cream until light and fluffy. Spread it gently over the pudding layer, covering the entire dessert.
Step 5 – Chill:
Refrigerate the dessert for several hours or until fully set. Sprinkle with lemon zest and nuts just before serving for extra flavor and a beautiful finish.
Enjoy this light and creamy treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
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Lemon Lush Dessert
Ingredients
Crust
- ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 cup flour
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- zest from a lemon
Pudding Layer
- 2 cups milk
- 6.8 ounces instant lemon pudding mix This is 2 (3.4 ounces) instant pudding mixes
Whip Cream Layer
- 1½ cups whipped cream
Toppings (Optional)
- chopped nuts
- lemon zest
Instructions
Crust
- Combine butter (softened) with flour and nuts in a mixing bowl. Mix well until crumbly, then press into an 8″x 8″ pan. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes and let cool. The crust will be a light tan color when baked.
Cream Cheese Layer
- Combine softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. Fold in lemon zest. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
Pudding Layer
- Whisk together milk and lemon pudding mix until thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Whip Cream Layer
- Whip up fresh whipped cream until light and fluffy. Gently spread it over the pudding layer, covering the entire dessert.
Chill Dessert
- Refrigerate the dessert for several hours or until fully set. Sprinkle with lemon zest and nuts just before serving for extra flavor and a beautiful finish.
Nutrition
Tips for the Best Lemon Lush
- Ensure Proper Cooling: Make sure each layer is adequately cooled or set before adding the next to maintain distinct layers.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance the citrus flavor.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: While store-bought whipped topping is convenient, freshly whipped cream can elevate the dessert’s taste and texture.
Variations to Try
- Different Pudding Flavors: Swap out the lemon pudding for flavors like chocolate or pistachio for a new twist.
- Alternate Crusts: Instead of a nutty crust, consider using a graham cracker or Oreo cookie crust for a different flavor profile.
- Tropical Coconut Lemon Lush: Add shredded coconut to the crust mixture for a tropical twist. Sprinkle toasted coconut on the whipped cream layer for extra flavor and texture. You can even swap out regular milk for coconut milk in the pudding layer to enhance the tropical vibe.
- Berry Lemon Lush: Layer fresh or frozen (and thawed) berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries, between the lemon pudding and whipped cream layers. The juicy berries add a burst of color and flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Certainly! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that all other ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Yes, to save time, you should use store-bought whipped cream! Note my tip below about whipped cream!
Yes, and check out my additional recipe below!
What’s the Difference Between Store-Bought Whipped Topping and Homemade Whipped Cream?
The main difference comes down to flavor, texture, and convenience. Store-bought whipped topping is sweetened, stabilized, and holds its shape longer, making it a reliable choice if you’re preparing the dessert in advance or need it to last for an extended period. On the other hand, homemade whipped cream, made from heavy cream, offers a fresher, richer flavor and a softer, creamier texture that elevates the dessert’s overall taste. While it’s less stable and may not hold up as well if frozen, the extra effort is worth it for that luscious homemade touch!
Graham Cracker Crust Recipe for Lemon Lush (Optional Replacement)
If you’d like to swap out the nutty shortbread crust for a buttery graham cracker crust, here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full crackers, finely crushed)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press Into Pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of your 8″x8″ pan to create an even layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to compact it well.
- Bake (Optional): Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes for a firmer crust, or skip baking if you prefer a softer, no-bake crust. Let cool completely before adding the layers.
This graham cracker crust adds a sweet and crumbly texture that pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon filling!
Storing Your Lemon Lush
- Refrigeration: Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap, store it in an airtight container, and keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For more extended storage, you can freeze Lemon Lush. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
More Lemon Desserts to Love
If you’re as obsessed with lemon desserts as I am, here are a few more recipes you’ll want to add to your baking list. Each one is packed with that bright, citrusy flavor we all love!
- Healthy Lemon Loaf Recipe: A lighter take on a classic lemon loaf, this recipe uses wholesome ingredients without sacrificing flavor. It’s moist, zesty, and perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
- Mini Lemon Tarts: These bite-sized treats are as adorable as they are delicious. A buttery tart shell and tangy lemon filling are perfect for parties or a fancy dessert platter.
- The Best Lemon Sour Cream Pie Recipe: Creamy, tangy, and irresistibly smooth, this pie features a rich lemon filling enhanced with sour cream for extra flavor. It’s all nestled in a flaky pie crust and topped with whipped cream—pure bliss in every bite!
These recipes are guaranteed to brighten your day and satisfy any lemon craving!
This recipe for lemon lush dessert is a true classic that combines zesty lemon flavor, creamy layers, and a buttery, nutty crust for a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this layered lemon treat is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. With its refreshing taste and crowd-pleasing appeal, Lemon Lush is a dessert you’ll return to time and time again.
Cheers,
Photo Credits: MyPhotography.com
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