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A layered slice of Lemon Lush Lasagna on a white plate, featuring creamy yellow filling, fluffy whipped cream, and lemon garnish.
Daniel

Zesty Lemon Lush Lasagna

This vibrant Lemon Lush Lasagna is a delightful no-bake layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy lemon-infused cream cheese layer, a tangy instant lemon pudding, and a light whipped topping. It's the perfect refreshing treat for any gathering.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 47 minutes
Servings: 12 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Graham Cracker Crust
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 8 oz container frozen whipped topping thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)
For the Lemon Pudding Layer
  • 2 3.4 oz packages instant lemon pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk whole or 2%
  • 1 tsp lemon zest optional
For the Whipped Topping & Garnish
  • 1 8 oz container frozen whipped topping thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)
  • 1-2 lemon sliced, for garnish (optional)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Wire Rack
  • Whisk

Method
 

For the Graham Cracker Crust
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
  3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. You can use the bottom of a glass or your fingers to compact it.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding. This is crucial for a firm crust.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it's smooth and creamy (about 1-2 minutes).
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Gently fold in one 8 oz container of thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula until no streaks of white remain. Set aside.
For the Lemon Pudding Layer
  1. In another large mixing bowl, whisk together the two packages of instant lemon pudding mix and 3 cups of cold milk for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken. Stir in the optional 1 teaspoon of lemon zest.
  2. Let the pudding stand for 5 minutes to allow it to fully set and thicken further.
Assembly
  1. Once the graham cracker crust is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
  2. Carefully spoon and spread the thickened lemon pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
  3. Finally, gently spread the second 8 oz container of thawed whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer, creating a smooth top.
Chill and Serve
  1. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow all the layers to set completely and the flavors to meld.
  2. Before serving, remove the plastic wrap. If desired, garnish with fresh lemon slices and extra lemon zest for a beautiful presentation. Slice into squares and serve cold.

Notes

This Lemon Lush Lasagna is truly best when made a day in advance, as the chilling time allows the flavors to deepen and the layers to become perfectly firm for clean slicing. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For an even more intense lemon flavor, you can add an additional half teaspoon of lemon extract to either the cream cheese or pudding layer.