Name: Decadent Coconut Cream Lush
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 43 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup chopped pecans; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted if desired); 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip); 1 package (3.4 oz) instant coconut cream pudding mix; 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix; 3 cups cold whole milk; Extra whipped topping (for garnish); Toasted coconut (for garnish)

If you’re craving a sweet, decadent dessert that transports you straight to tropical paradise, look no further than this indulgent Coconut Cream Lush Recipe. With every layer, you’ll experience a delightful combination of flavors and textures that create a harmonious balance of sweetness and creaminess. The base features a buttery pecan crust, which adds a delightful crunch to the dessert, while the layers of cream cheese, coconut pudding, and whipped topping provide a silky smooth finish that you won’t be able to resist. This Coconut Cream Lush is not only visually stunning but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.

Impress your family and friends at gatherings, or simply treat yourself to a slice after a long day. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, this dessert captures the essence of summer in every bite. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, freeing you to enjoy the moment without the stress of last-minute preparations. Are you ready to recreate this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the details of why you’ll love this Coconut Cream Lush.

Why You’ll Love This Coconut Cream Lush

Irresistible Layers: Each layer brings something unique to the table, with a crunchy pecan crust, creamy cheese filling, and luscious pudding topping.
Effortlessly Delicious: This recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks but impressive enough to wow guests at parties.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a summertime gathering, or a weekday treat, this dessert fits the bill.
Make Ahead Delight: The flavors only get better as they sit, making it a great prepare-in-advance option for busy schedules.
Customizable: Add your own twists with different toppings or variations to make it your own!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making this Coconut Cream Lush, it’s important to prepare your kitchen workspace to streamline the cooking process. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. You will need a mixing bowl, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula, and a baking dish for the crust, preferably a square 9×9-inch dish or something similar.

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending. To toast your coconut, spread it evenly in a baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until golden brown—keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly. Preparing these elements will ensure a smooth cooking experience and help your Coconut Cream Lush come out perfectly.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup chopped pecans
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted if desired)
2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 package (3.4 oz) instant coconut cream pudding mix
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
3 cups cold whole milk
Extra whipped topping (for garnish)
Toasted coconut (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Baking the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by preparing the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix them until the mixture is crumbly. This is the key to a flaky crust! Next, fold in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans until combined.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking dish to create an even layer. Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the layers.

Step 2: Creating the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, add 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until smooth and well combined. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture! Next, gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping and 1 cup of shredded coconut, mixing just until incorporated. This cream cheese mixture adds a rich and indulgent layer to your dessert.

Step 3: Making the Pudding Layer

Now it’s time for the pudding! In another mixing bowl, combine 1 package of instant coconut cream pudding mix and 1 package of instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk these dry ingredients together before gradually adding 3 cups of cold whole milk. Continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken, which should take about 2 minutes. This thick, custard-like layer is packed with flavor and complements the other textures perfectly.

Step 4: Assembling the Dessert

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Start by spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust layer. Take your time with this step to ensure an even coat. Once that’s done, pour the pudding mixture over the top, smoothing it out gently with a spatula. Finally, dollop the remaining whipped topping on top of the pudding, using the spatula to create beautiful swirls.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate your Coconut Cream Lush for at least 4 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps the layers set. When ready to serve, slice it into squares, and consider adding some extra toasted coconut and whipped topping on top for a stunning presentation.

Variations

Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder for an extra nutritious dessert that won’t compromise on taste.
Vegetables: Include layers of fresh berries or banana slices to enhance the flavors and add a fruity twist.
Spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the crust for added warmth and depth of flavor.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to chill the dessert thoroughly; this allows the pudding to set properly.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar based on your preference.
This dessert can be made up to one day in advance, making it perfect for parties.
For a more decadent version, try using a mix of heavy cream and whipped topping instead of standard whipped topping.
If you prefer a crunchier layer, try adding more pecans or using crushed graham crackers in place of some flour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Coconut Cream Lush with a side of fresh berries for a delightful contrast.
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.

Tips

For best results, ensure all your dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
Engage the kids in the kitchen by letting them help with the assembly—it’s fun and creates memories!
Experiment with different flavored pudding mixes, such as vanilla bean or dark chocolate for unique combinations.
Store leftovers (if any exist!) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 43 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320 per serving
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut for the crust?

Absolutely! You can substitute the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a different flavor profile.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How long can I store leftovers?

Your Coconut Cream Lush can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze this dessert?

While freezing is possible, it may affect the texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Conclusion

This Coconut Cream Lush Recipe is a heavenly dessert that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family. With its rich layers of flavor and creamy textures, it’s versatile enough for any gathering and easy to make ahead of time. Don’t hesitate to explore variations that suit your palate and feel free to get creative with your toppings. Your perfect tropical indulgence awaits, so go ahead and treat yourself to a slice of this heavenly dessert. And if you enjoyed making this recipe, share your experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!