Description
Lemon Lush Lasagna is a delightful layered dessert featuring a buttery, nutty crust topped with a creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, tangy lemon pudding, and a fluffy whipped topping. Perfectly chilled and garnished with lemon zest, it’s a refreshing treat ideal for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a zesty, creamy indulgence.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, divided (1 cup for mixing, remainder for topping)
Lemon Pudding Layer
- 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant lemon pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Mix until the mixture forms a crumbly texture. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even crust. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the crust turns lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely to ensure the layers don’t melt together.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, creating the second layer of the dessert.
- Prepare the lemon pudding layer: In another bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mixes with the cold milk. Continue whisking for about 2 minutes until the pudding thickens substantially. Immediately spread this lemon pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Add the whipped topping and chill: Top the pudding layer with the remaining whipped topping, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Smooth it out with a spatula for an attractive finish. Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally sprinkle the top with fresh lemon zest for a burst of citrus aroma and extra visual appeal. Slice into 12 portions and enjoy this creamy, tangy, and nutty dessert.
Notes
- For a nut-free crust alternative, substitute the flour and chopped pecans with graham cracker crumbs.
- To enhance the lemon flavor and add extra tang, consider adding a small amount of fresh lemon juice to the pudding or cream cheese layer.