Layered Lemon Delight
This Layered Lemon Delight is a scrumptious, multi-layered dessert bursting with textures and flavors. A nutty, buttery crust is topped with a creamy cheese filling, followed by a zesty lemon layer, and finished with a fluffy topping. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or as a treat to enjoy with family and friends.
12
Servings
292 kcal
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
1 cup (none)
butter
3/4 cup (softened)
pecans
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
sugar
1 teaspoon (none)
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (none)
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
powdered sugar
1 cup (sifted)
lemon flavored instant pudding and pie filling
2 packages (none)
milk
3 cups (cold)
Dream Whip
2 packages (prepared according to package instructions)
Instructions
1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
To make the crust, mix flour, softened butter, chopped pecans, sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 10x12-inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool completely.
3
For the cheese layer, blend together the softened cream cheese, one package of prepared Dream Whip, and sifted powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
4
Prepare the lemon layer by combining the instant lemon pudding mix with cold milk, whisking until smooth and thick. Spread this lemon mixture over the cream cheese layer.
5
For the final layer, spread the remaining prepared Dream Whip over the top, ensuring all layers are covered.
6
Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to set completely.
7
Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your Layered Lemon Delight!
Nutrition Information
18.75 g
Fat
27 g
Carbs
2.9 g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Layered Lemon Delight?
It is a multi-layered dessert featuring a nutty pecan crust, a creamy cheese layer, a tangy lemon pudding layer, and a whipped topping.
How many layers are in this dessert?
This dessert consists of four distinct layers: a baked pecan crust, a cream cheese and Dream Whip mixture, a lemon pudding layer, and a final topping of Dream Whip.
What oven temperature is needed for the crust?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How do I prepare the crust?
Mix flour, softened butter, chopped pecans, sugar, and vanilla extract until crumbly, then press the mixture into a 10x12-inch baking dish.
How long should the crust bake?
The crust needs to bake for 15 minutes or until it becomes lightly golden.
What are the ingredients for the cheese layer?
The cheese layer is made by blending softened cream cheese, one package of prepared Dream Whip, and sifted powdered sugar.
What type of pudding is used in the lemon layer?
The recipe calls for two packages of lemon flavored instant pudding and pie filling.
How much milk is required for the pudding?
You will need 3 cups of cold milk to mix with the lemon pudding packages.
What is the final layer of the dessert?
The final layer is the remaining prepared Dream Whip spread evenly over the top of the lemon layer.
How long does the dessert need to chill?
It should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours before serving to allow all layers to set completely.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 292 kcal.
Is this a no-bake dessert?
Not entirely, as the crust requires 15 minutes of baking, though the upper layers are assembled without heat.
Can I substitute the pecans in the crust?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, or omit them if you have a nut allergy.
What is Dream Whip?
Dream Whip is a brand of whipped topping mix that comes in a powder form and is prepared with milk and vanilla.
Can I use fresh lemons instead of pudding mix?
This specific recipe relies on instant pudding for texture and flavor, but you can add lemon zest for extra freshness.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 10x12-inch baking dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be kept in the refrigerator and covered with plastic wrap or an airtight lid.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it is an excellent make-ahead dessert because it needs time to chill and set in the fridge.
What is the texture of the crust?
The crust has a buttery, crumbly, and slightly crunchy texture due to the chopped pecans.
Why must the cream cheese be softened?
Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly with the powdered sugar and Dream Whip, preventing lumps in the filling.
Does the milk for the pudding need to be cold?
Yes, cold milk is necessary for instant pudding to thicken and set properly.
Can I use whole milk or 2 percent milk?
Both whole milk and 2 percent milk work well for this recipe to ensure a creamy pudding consistency.
How do I keep the layers from mixing?
Ensure the crust is completely cool before adding the cheese layer, and spread each subsequent layer carefully with a spatula.
Can I freeze Layered Lemon Delight?
While possible, freezing may slightly change the texture of the cream cheese and pudding layers once thawed.
How many packages of pudding are used?
The recipe requires two packages of instant lemon pudding mix.
Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Yes, you can easily swap the lemon pudding for vanilla, chocolate, or butterscotch if preferred.
Why should I sift the powdered sugar?
Sifting removes any hard clumps of sugar, ensuring the cream cheese layer is perfectly silky.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter provides the best flavor for the crust, but margarine can be used as a substitute if necessary.
Is this dessert good for potlucks?
Yes, it is a crowd-pleaser that is easy to slice into squares and serve to a group.