If you’re a fan of lemony desserts, Lemon Lush Cake is a must-try. This delightful treat layers a buttery crust with tangy lemon filling and a creamy topping, making it a perfect dessert for warm weather gatherings or any time you’re craving a light, citrusy indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Lemon Pudding Layer:
2 (3.4 oz) packages instant lemon pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
For the Whipped Topping:
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)
Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Prepare the Lemon Pudding Layer: Whisk together the lemon pudding mix and cold milk in a separate bowl for 2 minutes, or until thickened. Spread the lemon pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Add the Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the lemon pudding layer.
Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with lemon zest and lemon slices if desired. Slice and enjoy this creamy, zesty Lemon Lush Cake!
Serving Tips:
Chill Before Serving: For best results, ensure the Lemon Lush Cake is thoroughly chilled for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the layers set properly and makes slicing easier.
Garnish for Appeal: Garnish each slice with a bit of lemon zest or a lemon slice for a fresh, eye-catching presentation. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the lemon flavor.
Serve Cold: Lemon Lush Cake is best enjoyed cold. Serve directly from the refrigerator to maintain its refreshing taste and creamy texture.
Use a Sharp Knife: To get clean slices, use a sharp knife that has been dipped in warm water. This helps to cut through the layers smoothly.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover Lemon Lush Cake in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Keep it Covered: Always keep the cake covered to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
Shelf Life: The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. After that, it’s best to check for any changes in texture or taste before consuming.
Freezing (Optional): If you need to store the cake for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To thaw, transfer the cake to the refrigerator and let it defrost overnight before serving.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the lemon pudding mix with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust any additional flavors or garnishes to complement the new pudding flavor.
How can I make Lemon Lush Cake ahead of time?
Lemon Lush Cake is perfect for making ahead. Prepare and assemble the cake as directed, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the layers to set properly.
Can I use a gluten-free flour for the crust?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for the crust. Be sure to check the blend’s recommendations for baking to ensure the crust turns out well.
What can I do if I don’t have whipped topping?
If you don’t have whipped topping like Cool Whip, you can make your own by whipping heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form. Alternatively, you can use store-bought whipped cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Conclusion:
Lemon Lush Cake is an irresistible dessert that combines the refreshing taste of lemon with a creamy, dreamy texture. It’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a light, flavorful treat. Enjoy every bite of this citrusy delight!
📖 Recipe:
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Lemon Lush Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing and creamy Lemon Lush Cake, a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. This dessert features a buttery crust layered with a tangy lemon filling and topped with a smooth whipped topping. Ideal for warm weather gatherings or a light treat, this Lemon Lush Cake combines zesty lemon flavor with a creamy texture, making it a favorite among lemon lovers.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Lemon Pudding Layer:
2 (3.4 oz) packages instant lemon pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
For the Whipped Topping:
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)
Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Crust: Mix flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
- Make the Lemon Pudding Layer: Whisk lemon pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
- Add the Whipped Topping: Spread remaining whipped topping over the lemon pudding layer.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon zest and lemon slices if desired. Slice and serve.
Notes
Ensure the cake is well-chilled before serving for the best texture.
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to cut clean slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving
