Pudding Lush

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A delightful layered dessert featuring a crisp crust, creamy lemon pudding filling, and fluffy topping, perfect for gatherings or as a refreshing treat for lemon lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 sticks margarine
  • 2 cups Cool Whip
  • 2 (8 oz.) cream cheese
  • 2 packages instant lemon pudding
  • 3 cups milk

Instructions

  1. Mix flour and margarine like pie crust; press into 9 x 13-inch pan.
  2. Sprinkle with chopped nuts.
  3. Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine, which will enhance the crust's taste. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also experiment with different pudding flavors, such as vanilla or chocolate, to create a unique twist. This dessert is similar to the layered texture found in American recipes, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Serving Suggestions

Pudding Lush is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Honey Pound Cake or Grandma's Christmas Sugar Cookies for a perfect dessert spread. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing fruit salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, avoid freezing, as the layers may separate upon thawing. When ready to serve leftovers, allow them to come to room temperature or gently reheat in the microwave for a few seconds, ensuring not to overheat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pudding Lush contains roughly 865 calories, with 12g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 689mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).

865 kcal 43% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.6g 23% DV
Total Fat 59.6g 76% DV
Carbs 74g 27% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 16.8g 34% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 688.5mg 30% DV
Potassium 517.4mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 44.6mg 15% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 199.1mcg 22% DV
Vitamin C 5.6mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.8mcg 4% DV
Calcium 245.6mg 19% DV
Iron 3.9mg 22% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 Pudding Lush ahead of time?

Yes, Pudding Lush can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it's covered and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just be mindful that the crust may become a bit softer over time, but the taste will still be delicious.

What can I use if I don't have Cool Whip?

If you don't have Cool Whip, you can substitute it with homemade whipped cream. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form. This will provide a fresh flavor and creaminess that complements the pudding layers perfectly.

Is it possible to use a different type of pudding?

Absolutely! You can use any flavor of instant pudding mix, such as chocolate or vanilla, to customize your Pudding Lush. Each variation will give the dessert a unique taste, allowing you to tailor it to your preference or the occasion.

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).

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