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Coconut Cream Lush Recipe

4.9 from 54 reviews

Coconut Cream Lush is a decadent, layered dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, a creamy coconut-infused cream cheese layer, and a luscious coconut pudding topped with whipped topping and shredded coconut. This no-bake treat is perfect for coconut lovers looking for a rich and refreshing dessert with a tropical flair.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 1214 graham cracker sheets)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened (28 ounce blocks)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp coconut extract
  • 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed

Pudding Layer

  • 2 (3.4 oz) boxes of instant coconut cream pudding mix (or 1 box of 6.8 oz)
  • 3 cups half-and-half (or whole milk)
  • 8 oz Cool Whip
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create an even crust layer. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
  2. Make the cream cheese layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and coconut extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 8 oz of thawed Cool Whip until fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return the dish to the refrigerator.
  3. Prepare the pudding layer: In another bowl, whisk together the instant coconut cream pudding mix and half-and-half until thickened, following package directions (usually about 2 minutes). Fold in 8 oz of Cool Whip and the shredded sweetened coconut until combined.
  4. Assemble the dessert: Spoon the pudding mixture carefully over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. Sprinkle a light layer of shredded coconut on top for garnish if desired.
  5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow layers to set and meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy a rich, creamy coconut delight.

Notes

  • For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and half-and-half or whole milk for a creamy texture.
  • You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream if preferred.
  • Using sweetened shredded coconut enhances the dessert’s overall sweetness and flavor, but unsweetened coconut can be used for a less sweet option.
  • This dessert is best served cold and should be stored in the refrigerator.
  • Make sure to soften the cream cheese to avoid lumps in the cream cheese layer.

Keywords: coconut cream lush, layered dessert, coconut dessert, no bake dessert, creamy coconut pudding, graham cracker crust, easy summer dessert