Three Layers Of Yum

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

A creamy, layered lemon dessert featuring a buttery crust, tangy lemon filling, and fluffy whipped topping, perfect for gatherings or a refreshing treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 stick butter
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large package Dream Whip, prepared (use half)
  • 2 packages instant lemon pudding
  • 3 cups milk

Instructions

  1. Combine the butter, flour, and chopped nuts; press into a 9 x 13-inch pan and bake for 12 minutes at 350°F.
  2. Mix the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, then spread over the cooled crust.
  3. Prepare the pudding by mixing the instant lemon pudding with milk, then pour over the cream cheese layer.
  4. Top with half of the prepared Dream Whip, spreading evenly, then cover with remaining Dream Whip.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of unsalted. If you're short on time, pre-made crusts can be substituted for the homemade butter and flour base. To enhance the cream cheese layer, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract. For those who prefer a sweeter dessert, feel free to increase the powdered sugar to taste. This dessert pairs beautifully with Yummy Frosting for an extra touch.

Serving Suggestions

Cut into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert. This dish can be garnished with fresh lemon zest or berries for added color and flavor. It pairs well with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful brunch option, serve alongside other sweet treats like Melt Away Peanut Butter Balls or Bonnie Pie for a varied dessert table.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture of the layers, avoid stacking them. If you want to serve it chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly, making it easier to cut into squares.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Three Layers Of Yum contains roughly 889 calories, with 6g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value).

889 kcal 44% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.6g 11% DV
Total Fat 71g 91% DV
Carbs 58.4g 21% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 23.8g 48% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 160mg 7% DV
Potassium 237.7mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 193.2mg 64% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 54.5mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 1.6mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 85.9mg 7% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% 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 use a different flavor of pudding instead of lemon?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or banana pudding. Just keep in mind that different flavors will change the overall taste of the dish. If you choose chocolate pudding, consider adding a layer of chocolate shavings on top for an indulgent twist.

How do I make this dessert gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the powdered sugar and pudding mix, are gluten-free as well. This will keep the delicious layers intact without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes, this dessert can be made a day ahead of time! Just prepare it according to the recipe and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the Dream Whip topping just before serving to maintain its light and fluffy texture.

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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