Introduction
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of citrusy freshness and creamy delight! Our Lemon Lush Cake recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining layers of zesty lemon filling, velvety cream cheese, and buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or simply craving a slice of sunshine, this luscious treat is sure to brighten any occasion.
video instructions available below 👇
Ingredients
For the Crust:
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Lemon Filling:
– 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant lemon pudding mix
– 2 3/4 cups cold milk
– Zest of 2 lemons
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Crust**: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
2. **Make the Lemon Filling**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix, cold milk, and lemon zest until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes. Spread the lemon filling evenly over the prepared crust. Place the baking dish back in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the cream cheese layer.
3. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer**: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and evenly incorporated.
4. **Layer the Cream Cheese Mixture**: Spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled lemon filling layer, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even layer.
5. **Chill and Serve**: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the lemon lush cake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.
6. **Garnish and Enjoy**: Before serving, garnish the lemon lush cake with additional lemon zest or lemon slices for a decorative touch. Cut into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing and delightful dessert experience.
Tips for Success
– For a twist, try using lemon-flavored graham crackers for the crust to enhance the lemony flavor profile.
– Feel free to experiment with different pudding flavors such as vanilla or white chocolate for unique variations of the lemon lush cake.
– Ensure that the cream cheese is softened
