Coconut Cream Lush

Introduction

This Coconut Cream Lush is the ultimate make-ahead dessert, layering a buttery pecan crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and a luscious coconut cream pudding. You get a perfect bite of creamy, crunchy, and tropical flavors in every slice.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 70 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 95 minutes (plus chilling)

Servings: 24

Ingredients

• 2 sleeves graham crackers (finely ground)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled )
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 1/2 cup pecans (finely chopped or food processor processed )
• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 16 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 6.8 ounces instant coconut cream pudding mix ((2 3.4-ounce packages))
• 4 cups milk (you can also do 3 1/2, if you want it a little thicker)
• 8 ounces whipped topping (Cool Whip or you can substitute the same amount whipped cream)
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes (toasted )
• Optional: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans on top

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine the ground graham crackers, 6 tablespoons melted butter, flour, 1 cup melted butter, finely chopped pecans, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until it resembles wet sand and holds together when pinched.
3. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Make the cream cheese layer: In a large bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and lemon juice on medium-high speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the completely cooled crust.
6. Make the pudding layer: In a separate large bowl, whisk the instant coconut cream pudding mix with the milk for 2 minutes until it begins to thicken. Immediately pour and spread it over the cream cheese layer.
7. Chill the dessert, uncovered, in the refrigerator for at least 30-45 minutes to allow the pudding to set.
8. Finish the dessert: Once the pudding layer is set, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the toasted coconut flakes and optional finely chopped pecans.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before slicing and serving.

Variations

• Individual Servings: Layer the components in clear cups or mason jars for a portable, no-slice-required dessert.
• Flavor Swap: Use instant vanilla or cheesecake pudding mix for a different, but still delicious, creamy layer.
• Texture Twist: Add a thin layer of crushed pineapple (well-drained) between the cream cheese and pudding layers for a tropical pina colada vibe.
• Chocolate Version: Substitute the graham crackers with chocolate wafer cookies for a chocolate-coconut combination.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the crust is completely cool before adding the cream cheese layer; otherwise, the heat will cause it to melt and become runny.
• For the cleanest slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
• Toasting the coconut flakes is non-negotiable for the best flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5-8 minutes, stirring once, until golden.
• For the thicker pudding option, start with 3 1/2 cups of milk. You can always add the remaining 1/2 cup if the mixture seems too thick to spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store the dessert covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dessert is served cold and should not be reheated.

FAQ

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can substitute 8 ounces of whipped topping with an equal amount of freshly whipped heavy cream sweetened with 1-2 tablespoons of powdered sugar.

Why is my cream cheese layer lumpy?

This happens if the cream cheese is not fully softened to room temperature. Let it sit out for 1-2 hours before mixing for a perfectly smooth texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers and a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust.

Do I have to use pecans?

No, you can omit them from the crust if you have a nut allergy or preference. The crust will still be delicious.

Can I freeze Coconut Cream Lush?

It’s not recommended. The pudding and whipped topping layers may separate and become watery upon thawing, compromising the texture.

What if I can’t find coconut cream pudding mix?

You can use instant vanilla pudding mix and add 1 teaspoon of coconut extract to the milk when preparing it.