Lemon Bush
A creamy lemon dessert with a crunchy walnut crust, layered with pudding and whipped topping, perfect for a refreshing and indulgent treat suitable for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together margarine, flour, and chopped walnuts and press into a 9 x 13-inch greased pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in whipped cream (Cool Whip) and spread this mixture on top of the cooled crust.
- Mix lemon pudding mix with 3 cups cold milk until thickened.
- Spread the pudding mixture on top of the cream cheese layer.
- When the pudding has set, spread additional whipped cream (Cool Whip) over the top.
- Sprinkle with finely chopped nuts.
- Refrigerate overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the margarine is softened but not melted when mixing with the flour and walnuts. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. If you prefer a tart flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the pudding mixture. Using sugar-free Jello Pudding can also make this dessert lower in calories.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, garnished with additional chopped nuts or fresh fruit like berries for a pop of color. This dessert pairs beautifully with Twelve Cup Salad for a refreshing meal. It's perfect for potlucks or gatherings, providing a sweet ending to any meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the whipped cream starts to deflate, gently re-whip it before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cream cheese and pudding layers may change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Bush contains roughly 484 calories, with 8g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% 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 use a different type of pudding mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of instant pudding mix, such as vanilla or cheesecake, to create variations of this dessert. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the Lemon Bush gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the pudding mix and any toppings, are certified gluten-free to maintain safety for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can whip heavy cream with a little powdered sugar and vanilla extract to create a similar texture to Cool Whip. This will enhance the flavor and make the dessert even richer.
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).