Indulge in this irresistible Lemon Lush—a layered lemon dessert featuring a buttery pecan crust, a zesty lemon cheesecake layer, smooth lemon pudding, and a fluffy whipped topping sprinkled with more pecans. If you’re a fan of lemon desserts, be sure to try our Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake for another delightful treat!
These lemon dessert bars elevate lemon treats to a whole new level—literally. Starting with a pecan crust inspired by our Piggy Pie Dessert, we add a tangy lemon-infused cream cheese layer reminiscent of our Lemon Mousse. Next comes a layer of luscious lemon pudding, all crowned with a generous dollop of whipped topping and a sprinkling of chopped pecans.
Ingredients for Lemon Lush Bars
There are four delectable parts to this layered lemon dessert: the pecan crust, the cream cheese layer, the lemon pudding, and the topping.
Pecans: Nuts add a delightful crunch to both the crust and the topping. Feel free to substitute walnuts if you prefer in your lemon lush dessert.
Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before preparing the cream cheese layer for a smooth and creamy texture.
Pudding: We use two boxes of instant lemon pudding mix. You can definitely swap out the lemon flavor for another pudding flavor to suit your taste.
Whipped Topping: You can use store-bought whipped topping or make your own. If you opt for homemade, be sure to whip it to stiff peaks and keep it chilled until use.
What Is a Lush Dessert?
Lush desserts are typically layered treats that are rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent! This Lemon Lush, sometimes called lemon delight or lemon lasagna due to its multiple layers, is a perfect example. These layered desserts come in various flavors—from chocolate to pistachio—offering something for every palate.
How to Store Lemon Lush
Store this layered lemon dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well—simply thaw it in the refrigerator when you’re ready to serve your lemon lush.
Ingredients
Crust
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ cups (190 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (110 grams) chopped pecans
Cream Cheese Layer
- 12 ounces (340 grams) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (225 grams) confectioners’ sugar
- Juice of 1 medium lemon (about ¼ cup / 60 ml)
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1 cup (240 grams) whipped topping
Lemon Layer
- 2 boxes (3.4 ounces each / 100 grams each) instant lemon pudding mix
- 3 cups (750 grams) cold whole milk
Topping
- 2 cups (580 grams) whipped topping
- ¼ cup (30 grams) chopped pecans, for garnish
Instructions
Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, and chopped pecans. Using a fork, mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Bake the Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent the edges from burning. Remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely.
Cream Cheese Layer
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Lemon: Add the confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt. Beat until everything is well combined.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gradually fold in the whipped topping, a little at a time.
- Spread Over Crust: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Place the dish in the freezer while you prepare the lemon layer.
Lemon Layer
- Prepare the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant lemon pudding mix and cold whole milk. Use a hand mixer to beat until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2-4 minutes.
- Layer the Pudding: Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer. Carefully smooth it into an even layer. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes to allow it to set.
Topping
- Add Whipped Topping: Once the pudding layer has set, dollop the whipped topping over it. Gently spread it into an even layer.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans over the top as a garnish.
- Chill: Place the lemon lush dessert in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Enjoy this refreshing and creamy Lemon Lush Dessert—a perfect ending to any meal. Its layers of flavor and texture are sure to impress your family and friends!
