Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Lush Dessert is a refreshing, creamy layered dessert that combines a buttery pecan crust with tangy lemon pudding and a smooth cream cheese layer, all topped with whipped topping. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for spring and summer gatherings, offering a balance of sweetness and citrusy brightness in every bite.

ingredients

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

all-purpose flour
unsalted butter
chopped pecans
cream cheese
granulated sugar
lemon pudding mix (instant)
cold milk
whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a bowl, mix the flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans until crumbly. Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.

Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture over the cooled crust.

In another bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and cold milk until thickened. Spread the pudding layer over the cream cheese layer.

Top with a generous layer of whipped topping, spreading it evenly.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Chilling time: 4+ hours
Total time: about 4.5 hours

Variations

Use vanilla pudding instead of lemon for a milder flavor.
Add lemon zest to the cream cheese layer for extra citrus zing.
Swap pecans with walnuts or leave nuts out for a nut-free crust.
Top with fresh berries or lemon slices for decoration.

storage/reheating

Store Lemon Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change.
Serve directly from the fridge; no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes, but stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar if making ahead.

What if I can’t find lemon pudding mix?

You can use lemon curd or make homemade lemon pudding.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It’s sweet with a balanced tartness from the lemon pudding.

Can I make it the day before?

Absolutely—it actually tastes better after chilling overnight.

Do I have to bake the crust?

Yes, baking helps it set and develop a toasty flavor.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat offers the best texture and flavor.

What type of milk works best?

Whole or 2% milk works best with instant pudding mixes.

Can I add gelatin for a firmer texture?

Not necessary, but you can add it to the pudding if desired.

How do I keep the layers neat when slicing?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Lemon Lush Dessert is a crowd-pleasing, no-fuss treat that’s ideal for warm-weather occasions or anytime you crave something light and tangy. Its layered textures and flavors make it both comforting and refreshing—a surefire favorite for any dessert table.