Layered Lemon Dessert – A Delightful Treat for Lemon Lovers

It’s no secret that lemon desserts are a favorite of many. Although chocolate is a classic delight, the tangy zest of lemon often wins the day. Recipes such as lemon-blueberry bundt cake, lemon cupcakes, or homemade lemon bars showcase why the flavor is so beloved—its lip-puckering tartness brings a refreshing touch that brightens up any dessert.

Why not twist the traditional layered pistachio pudding dessert into a refreshing lemon treat? Combining the zesty flavor of lemon with the fun, layered approach creates a summer delight that is hard to resist.

What is My Layered Lemon Dessert?

This dessert pulls inspiration from my layered pistachio pudding dessert, but adds a bright and tangy twist with lemon. Starting off with a crust reminiscent of my grandmother’s cheesecake, it features a delectable cream cheese layer, followed by lemon pudding, a layer of lemon curd, and finally, a comforting topping of whipped cream. The resulting confection is a vibrant and flavorful delight that offers a wonderful array of textures—a real visual treat!

How to Make This Layered Lemon Dessert

Despite its multiple layers, each component of this dessert is simple to prepare, making the entire process quite straightforward. This recipe also falls within my category of “low-bake” desserts—while the crust requires baking, the remaining layers are no-bake delights. This offers the perfect opportunity for kids to join in the fun, making the preparation memorable and engaging.

Layers in This Dessert

The layered lemon dessert consists of five distinct parts:

1. Cookie crust: The crust utilizes a cookie-like recipe from my grandmother, imparting a delightful sweetness that complements the lemon filling beautifully.
2. Cream cheese layer: This layer is a mix of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped topping, reminiscent of no-bake cheesecake.
3. Pudding layer: The pudding is crafted from instant lemon pudding mix and milk, creating a thick and luscious layer.
4. Lemon layer: Here, homemade microwave lemon curd shines, although lemon pie filling can easily substitute for it.
5. Topping: The dessert is crowned with a layer of whipped topping, ensuring a light and airy finish.

Making This Recipe

Begin by lining your favorite 13×9-inch pan with parchment paper or foil, spraying it with cooking spray. Combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt in a stand mixer until it forms a crumbly mixture. Press this evenly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 15 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before adding the layers.

For the cream cheese layer, combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in the mixer until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping and spread this mixture over the cooled crust.

Prepare the pudding layer by whisking together the pudding mixes with milk. Allow it to thicken for about five minutes, then gently spread it over the cream cheese layer. Next, spread the prepared lemon curd over the pudding, finishing with the remaining whipped topping.

Cover and refrigerate for at least six hours before serving for the best results.

FAQs

Can I Use Whipped Cream Instead of Cool Whip?

If you’re not fond of whipped topping, whipped cream frosting is an excellent alternative. Just remember, using regular whipped cream may not hold up as well.

Can You Make This Layered Lemon Dessert Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This dessert requires chilling for at least six hours, making it perfect for preparing the night before serving. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy.

How Do You Store This Dessert?

This dessert should be stored in the refrigerator. I recommend avoiding freezing it as the layers might separate during thawing.

How Do You Get Nice, Clean Slices?

For beautifully clean slices, chill the desserts in the freezer for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are very cold but not frozen. Use parchment paper to lift the dessert out of the pan, and with a warmed knife, make a clean slice. Reheat the knife and wipe it clean between cuts for the best results.