Florida Delight
A refreshing lemon-flavored dessert with a crisp crust and creamy filling, perfect for summer gatherings and citrus lovers seeking a light, tangy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, margarine, and chopped nuts like pie crust.
- Pat into a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (325°F if using a glass dish) for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Let cool.
- Prepare the lemon pudding with milk according to package instructions.
- Beat the light cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Combine pudding and cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the filling over the cooled crust and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also experiment with different nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for varied texture. If you want a tangier filling, add a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture. Make sure to let the crust cool completely before spreading the pudding mixture to prevent it from melting.
Serving Suggestions
This Florida Delight is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, such as a Low Calorie Orange Salad, for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, garnish with whipped cream or lemon zest before serving. It's a perfect dessert for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The crust may become softer over time, so it's best enjoyed within the first day or two. If you need to reheat, gently warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but it's best served chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florida Delight contains roughly 983 calories, with 6g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 747mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate it after assembling. The flavors will meld wonderfully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Just ensure that the other ingredients, particularly the pudding mix, are also gluten-free.
What can I substitute for light cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for light cream cheese. It will provide a creamy texture with a tangy flavor, but keep in mind it may alter the taste slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).