Layered Lemon or Chocolate Lush Aka Luscious Lemon Layers
Indulge in the blissful layers of the *Layered Lemon or Chocolate Lush*, also known as *Luscious Lemon Layers*. This no-bake (or optional baked crust) dessert is a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy and tangy cream cheese layer, and a silky smooth pudding layer—your choice of zesty lemon or rich chocolate. Topped with fluffy whipped topping and a touch of optional garnish like fresh lemon zest or decadent chocolate shavings, this dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Perfectly chilled and easy to make in just 25 minutes of prep, this make-ahead treat is ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, or any time you're craving layered dessert perfection. Enjoy a slice of layered delight that’s sweet, refreshing, and utterly irresistible!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 packages lemon pudding mix (instant, 3.4 oz) or chocolate pudding mix
- 4 cups whole milk
- 16 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed (such as Cool Whip)
- 1 tablespoon optional: grated lemon zest or chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you want to bake the crust for a firmer texture, or skip this step for a no-bake crust.
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into a 9x13-inch pan to form an even crust.
If baking the crust, transfer it to the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before assembling the dessert.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Fold in 8 ounces of the whipped topping and mix until well combined. Spread this cream cheese layer evenly over the crust.
In another bowl, whisk together the pudding mix (lemon or chocolate) and milk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Spread the remaining whipped topping (8 ounces) over the pudding layer, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
Cover and refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set completely.
Before serving, garnish with grated lemon zest (for lemon lush) or chocolate shavings (for chocolate lush), if desired.
Slice into squares and serve chilled. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
545 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.9 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.5 g | 113% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 73 mg | 24% | |
| Sodium | 386 mg | 17% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 56.4 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6 g | 2% | |
| Total Sugars | 40.0 g | ||
| Protein | 5.3 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 131 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 180 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
