Lemon Lush

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Layer

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped topping

For the Lemon Layer

• 2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant lemon pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk

For the Topping

• 2 cups whipped topping
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Thin lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely before adding the next layer.
4. Time: 20 minutes Intensity: Easy

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
2. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
3. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Make sure to reach the edges to create a seal between the crust and the pudding layer.
4. Time: 10 minutes Intensity: Easy

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Pudding Layer

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mixes and cold milk for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken.
2. Allow the pudding to sit for 3–5 minutes to reach a spreadable consistency.
3. Carefully spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, creating an even surface.
4. Time: 10 minutes Intensity: Easy

Step 4: Add the Final Topping

1. Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the lemon pudding layer.
2. Use a spatula to create decorative swirls if desired. Sprinkle lemon zest over the top and garnish with thin lemon slices for an elegant presentation.
3. Time: 5 minutes Intensity: Very Easy

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
2. Once chilled and fully set, cut into squares and serve cold.
3. Time: 4 hours chilling Intensity: None

Nutrition

Calories: 340 · Protein: 5g · Fat: 20g · Carbohydrates: 37g · Saturated Fat: 10g · Fiber: 1g · Sugar: 24g · Sodium: 310mg