Lemon Lush

Prepare yourself for a refreshing, zesty dessert that’s light, tangy, and absolutely irresistible! Lemon Lush combines creamy layers with a tangy lemon flavor on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s sweet, tart, and best of all—there’s no baking involved. I love making this because it’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Why go for regular lemon bars when you can enjoy Lemon Lush?

When the weather warms up and the sun is shining, I’m all about chilled, no-bake desserts. Lemon Lush is my go-to because it’s a perfect blend of refreshing flavors and creamy textures. Whether for a backyard barbecue, a family gathering or just because, this dessert never fails to impress.

The best part is that you can make it ahead of time, making it a stress-free, show-stopping dessert. Just add a few fresh lemon slices on top, and you have a gorgeous and delicious treat that everyone will adore.

History

Lemon Lush is a classic layered dessert that gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s in America, particularly at potlucks and community gatherings. Known for its refreshing lemon flavor, it typically features a buttery shortbread crust, a layer of sweetened cream cheese, lemon pudding, and whipped topping. The dessert’s simplicity and light, creamy texture made it a favorite for spring and summer events, embodying the mid-century trend of convenient, easily assembled desserts using pre-made ingredients like pudding mixes and whipped toppings.

Ingredients

• Graham crackers
• Butter – Melted.
• Cream cheese – Softened.
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Powdered sugar – Divided.
• Heavy whipping cream
• Whole milk
• Lemon instant pudding mix and pie filling
• Lemon slices – For garnish.

How to Make Lemon Lush

This recipe is simple to prepare and layers creamy textures with tangy flavors into a delightful dessert perfect for any lemon enthusiast. Here’s how to make Lemon Lush:

1. Coat a 13-x 9-inch freezer-safe baking dish with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until combined. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Freeze until the crust is firm, about 20 minutes.
3. In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1 cup of powdered sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until the mixture is fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. In a separate large bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream and the remaining 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Beat on high until stiff peaks form, about 2 minutes. Gently fold 1 cup of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust and freeze until set, about 30 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and pudding mix until smooth and thickened, about 2 to 4 minutes. Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer. Chill until the pudding is slightly set, about 45 minutes.
7. Carefully spread the remaining whipped cream over the pudding layer. Chill, covered, until firm, for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours. Garnish with lemon slices before serving.
8. Store any leftovers, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Step-By-Step Process

Chef Jenn’s Tips

• Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for the creamiest texture.
• Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream to achieve stiff peaks.
• If you’re short on time, prepare the crust and cream cheese layer the night before. That way, most of the work is done ahead of time!
• For the best zesty flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice. It makes a huge difference.
• When pressing the crust into the dish, use the back of a measuring cup to get it smooth and even.

Make It A Meal

Lemon Lush is a fantastic dessert to end any meal, particularly when paired with light and savory dishes. Serve it after a grilled chicken Caesar salad or complement the citrus theme with lemon herb shrimp and pasta. It also pairs nicely with grilled vegetables or a Mediterranean-style spread to balance the tartness.

Storage

If you have leftovers, keep your Lemon Lush in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and it will stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to one month. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.