Heavenly Lemon Lush: The Ultimate Make-Ahead Layered Dessert

The first time I tasted Lemon Lush was at my grandmother’s summer potluck. As a child who typically gravitated toward chocolate desserts, I was initially skeptical of this pale yellow creation. One bite of that perfect balance of crumbly nutty crust, tangy lemon pudding, and cloud-like cream cheese topping changed everything. I found myself sneaking back to the dessert table for “just one more small piece” of this heavenly lemon dessert throughout the afternoon. Years later, when I asked for the recipe, I was shocked by how simple it was to create something so magnificent.

lemon lush topped with strawberries on a plate.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

What Makes Lemon Lush So Special?

Lemon Lush stands out among desserts with its three distinct layers that create a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The crunchy nut crust provides a sturdy base, while the tart lemon pudding layer delivers a refreshing punch that’s beautifully balanced by the light, fluffy cream cheese topping. This triple-layer delight is simultaneously rich and refreshing, making it the perfect finale for any meal, especially during warmer months.

Lemon Lush recipe ingredients

Ingredients for the Nut Crust

  • Butter – Creates a rich flavor and helps bind the crust ingredients together.
  • Chopped Nuts – Provides crunch and a nutty depth to the base layer.
  • All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the structure for the crust, binding with butter to create a shortbread-like texture.

Ingredients for the Lemon Layer

  • Lemon Instant Pudding Mix – Delivers concentrated lemon flavor and thickening power.
  • Whole Milk – Activates the pudding mix and creates the proper consistency.

Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Layer

  • Cream Cheese – Provides tangy richness and creamy texture to the top layer.
  • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese layer while dissolving completely for a smooth texture.
  • Cool Whip Topping – Adds lightness and volume to the top layer while maintaining stability.
lemon lush ingredients on a baking sheet.

How to make Lemon Lush

Making Lemon Lush dessert is easy when you break the process into three parts. You can also prepare the crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

To make the crust:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Place the nuts in a plastic bag and crush them into small pieces using a rolling pin.
  3. Melt the butter in the microwave or a saucepan over low heat.
  4. Stir in the melted butter, crushed nuts, and flour until it resembles wet sand.
lemon lush crust mixture in a skillet.
  1. Press the mixture evenly onto the bottom of a lightly greased  9×13-inch baking pan. 
  2. Blind bake the crust until it is lightly brown, about 15 minutes.
  3. Allow the crust to cool completely before filling.
baked crust for lemon lush dessert.

To make the pudding layer:

  1. Combine both packets of pudding mix with the milk in a medium bowl.
  2. Mix until the pudding begins to thicken, about 3 to 5 minutes. Don’t worry if the consistency of the filling is a little thick – that is what you want. 
lemon pudding mixture in a bowl.
  1. Scoop the pudding onto the cold crust carefully. 
  2. Use an offset spatula to even out the filling. Leave no spaces around the sides of the pan. 
  3. Place the pan in the fridge while you make the cream cheese layer. 

To make the cream cheese layer:

  1. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it on the counter for about 30 minutes. 
  2. Combine the softened cream cheese, whipped topping, and powdered sugar in a bowl with an electric mixer.
  3. Use a hand or stand mixer to beat the mixture in a large bowl until it increases in volume and becomes light and fluffy. 
lemon lush cream cheese layer mixture in a bowl.
  1. Scoop the cream cheese mixture onto the pudding layer and smooth with an offset spatula be sure to spread in an even layer. 
  2. Place in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
lemon lush dessert and a fork on a plate.
lemon lush topped with strawberries on a plate.

Heavenly Layered Lemon Lush Dessert

A triple-layer dessert featuring a buttery nut crust, tangy lemon pudding, and a fluffy cream cheese topping. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion calling for a refreshing, make-ahead dessert.
5 from 6 votes
Print Pin Rate Add to Collection
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Lemon Lush
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 24
Calories: 172kcal

Ingredients

Crust

  • 4 ounces melted butter
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

Lemon Layer

  • 2 packages instant lemon pudding mix 4-serving size
  • 3 cups milk

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup Cool Whip

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • Mix together the melted butter, chopped nuts, and flour.
  • Spread the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan.
  • Bake for 15 minutes.
  • Let the crust cool for 20 minutes.
  • In a bowl, combine the pudding mix and milk, and beat until it starts to thicken.
  • Pour this over the cooled crust.
  • Mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and Cool Whip, and spread over the pudding.

Notes

  • When mixing the crust, the mixture should stick together when you squeeze it in the palm of your hand. If it appears crumbly and doesn’t hold its shape, you can add a bit more butter before pressing it into the dish. This will ensure that the crust doesn’t fall apart when you slice it.
  • To prevent a lumpy cream cheese layer, sift powdered sugar beforehand. Clumps can form from pantry storage or transportation. You’ll also want to avoid working with cold cream cheese.
  • Make sure to allow the crust to cool fully before adding the pudding layer. If you have already added it to a hot crust and the pudding mixture becomes soupy, stick it in the freezer for a bit to help it set. Don’t add the cream cheese layer until the pudding layer stiffens!
  • If you want to use homemade whipped cream in place of the Cool Whip, you must add a stabilizer to it. The Cool Whip already has a nice structure, making it the ideal option for the recipe.
Recipe by Virginia McDowell. Jefferson City, MO. 1983.

Nutrition

Calories: 172kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 24mg | Sodium: 120mg | Potassium: 72mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 300IU | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Recipe variations

Crushed walnuts, cashews, pistachios, or pecans work well in this Lemon Lush delight crust recipe, but you can make it extra special by using candied nuts.

If you don’t care for lemon or want something different, you can change the flavor of this recipe. Simply substitute the lemon pudding with the flavor of your choice. Here are some recommendations:

  • Banana Cream
  • Butterscotch
  • Caramel
  • Chocolate
  • Pistachio

Changing the flavor is up to you, so feel free to be creative!

How long do you need to chill Lemon Lush before serving? 

Cover the Lemon Lush dessert with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving. 

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Lemon Lush needs to chill for at least 2 hours before serving, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate.

For best results, consume within 2-3 days, as the crust may begin to soften over time. While still delicious, the textural contrast that makes this dessert special will gradually diminish.

overhead view of lemon lush dessert in a dish and on a plate.

Love lemon? Try these recipes!

Favorite Dessert Recipes

Check out more of my easy dessert recipes and family favorite recipes here on CopyKat!

About Stephanie Manley

Hi there! I’m Stephanie Manley, the creator behind CopyKat.com — and a passionate advocate for helping home cooks recreate restaurant-style meals at home.

Since 1995, I've been on a mission to help you enjoy your favorite restaurant flavors from the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you're craving a classic Olive Garden soup, a local diner favorite, or a long-lost menu item you still think about, you’ll find everything you need here.

How It All Started

My journey began in college when dining out was a treat, and my budget was tight. Instead of giving up my favorite meals, I started learning how to recreate them myself.
What began as a few handwritten recipes eventually grew into CopyKat.com, one of the internet’s longest-running and most trusted sources for copycat recipes.

Today, CopyKat has helped millions of home cooks save money, customize their meals, and rediscover their favorite flavors.

Beyond CopyKat: Vintage-Recipes.com and GameDayEats.com

My passion for food extends beyond restaurant recreations! I also founded two additional websites:

Vintage-Recipes.com: A nostalgic journey through the classic recipes many of us grew up loving.

GameDayEats.com: Bold, crowd-pleasing recipes perfect for football parties, tailgates, and all your favorite game day traditions.

Wherever you’re cooking — from everyday dinners to special celebrations — I'm here to make it easier, tastier, and more fun.

Books and Media Features

I’m the author of two cookbooks, CopyKat.com Dining Out in the Home I and CopyKat.com Dining Out in the Home II, where I share even more beloved restaurant recipes made simple for the home cook.

My work has been featured across major media outlets, including MSN, Parade Magazine, The The Washington Times, Newsweek, and many more.
You can see more of my media appearances and professional work on my Muck Rack profile.

Professional Experience

In addition to running my websites, I am an experienced recipe developer, digital strategist, video creator, and podcast host.
I create content for a vibrant community across YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, helping millions of people cook smarter and eat better every day.

You can also learn more about my background in content strategy, community building, and online entrepreneurship on my LinkedIn profile.

Let's Stay Connected!

If you love saving money, mastering restaurant-style recipes, diving into vintage dishes, or hosting unforgettable game day feasts, you’re in the right place.

Follow along on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram, or subscribe to the CopyKat newsletter for fresh recipes, kitchen tips, and inspiration delivered straight to you.

Thanks so much for visiting — I can’t wait to cook with you!

— Stephanie

Stephanie is the author of CopyKat.com's Dining Out in the Home, and CopyKat.com's Dining Out in the Home 2.

REVEALED: Copycat Secrets for 2025

free email bonus

Yes, you CAN make it at home! I'll show you how.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jerry S.

    I’ve made this for years, but I use a double graham cracker pie crust instead. No one’s ever complained, great, simple recipe..

5 from 6 votes (5 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




homemade Olive Garden Asiago Torgelloni Alfredo with chicken on a plate

Copycat Recipe Secrets for 2025

REVEALED:

Yes, you CAN make it at home! 
I'll show you how.

FREE EMAIL BONUS