Lemon Lush Recipe

Sliced lemon lush dessert served on a white plate.

5 from 1 vote

This Lemon Lush recipe is a classic layered dessert made with a buttery baked crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese, lemon pudding, and whipped topping.

Prep Time15

Cook Time25

Chill Time6

Total Time6 40

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 436kcal

Author: Kristin Hayes

Equipment

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter softened
16 oz cream cheese softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 pkgs instant lemon pudding mix 3 oz boxes
3 cups milk
8 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
fresh lemon slices for garnish optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the flour and butter, using a fork or pastry blender until a crumbly dough forms.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool completely.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the lemon juice and mix until combined. Drop the mixture by spoonfuls over the cooled crust and spread into an even layer.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened. Pour over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
Before serving, spread the whipped topping evenly over the dessert. Garnish with lemon slices if desired.

Notes

Soften the cream cheese: This helps the filling mix smoothly without lumps.
Use instant pudding: Cook-and-serve pudding will not set properly.
Let the crust cool completely: Adding the filling to a warm crust can soften the layers.
For clean slices: Chill thoroughly and wipe the knife clean between cuts.

Nutrition