Description

This Refreshing Lemon Lush Cake is the perfect layered dessert to brighten up any occasion. With a buttery nut crust, a creamy lemon-infused cream cheese layer, a silky lemon pudding topping, and fluffy whipped topping, this dessert is as delicious as it is easy to make. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you need a sweet and tangy treat!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
¼ cup pecans or walnuts, finely chopped
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

8 oz package cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
8 oz container whipped topping, thawed

For the Pudding Layer:

2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding mix
3 cups cold milk

For the Top Layer:

8 oz container whipped topping, thawed

Optional Garnishes:

Zest of lemon
Thin lemon slices

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Crust: Combine flour, granulated sugar, chopped nuts, and softened butter in a medium mixing bowl. Mix until the ingredients resemble coarse crumbs.
Bake the Crust: Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the next layer.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the lemon zest and juice, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Make the Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and cold milk for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken. Spread the pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Add the Final Layer: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer, smoothing it out evenly.
Garnish: Sprinkle with additional lemon zest and decorate with thin lemon slices, if desired.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.

Notes

Make Ahead: This dessert tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance.
Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts in the crust if needed, or replace them with an equal amount of crushed graham crackers.
Garnish Options: Fresh berries, mint leaves, or a light dusting of powdered sugar make great alternatives to lemon slices and zest.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American