Name: Coconut Cream Lush: A Creamy, No-Bake Dessert for Every Occasion
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-488876H9M57S
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp coconut extract; 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed; 2 (3.4 oz) boxes of instant coconut cream pudding mix; 3 cups half-and-half; 8 oz Cool Whip; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

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If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Coconut Cream Lush: A Creamy, No-Bake Dessert for Every Occasion is everything you could wish for in a treat. With its rich layers of creamy coconut flavors, this dessert is perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. The best part? It requires no baking, making it a breeze to whip up anytime that sweet tooth strikes!

This Coconut Cream Lush has a special place in my heart because it’s not just easy to prepare; it also brings smiles all around the table. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dessert will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and no baking involved, anyone can make this luscious dessert.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will swoon over the creamy coconut layers—it’s a guaranteed hit!
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dessert in advance, freeing up your time on the day of your event.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and coconut pudding creates a dreamy taste that feels like a tropical vacation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Coconut Cream Lush truly shine. Don’t worry; they’re all simple and wholesome! Here’s what you need to create this delightful dessert:

For the Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12–14 graham cracker sheets)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened (2-8 ounce blocks)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp coconut extract
8 oz Cool Whip, thawed

For the 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)

For Topping

8 oz Cool Whip
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

Change the Flavor: Swap out coconut extract for vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor twist.
Mix in Fruits: Add fresh fruits like sliced bananas or berries between the layers for an extra burst of flavor.
Go Nutty: Incorporate chopped nuts into the crust or sprinkle them on top for added crunch and texture.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.

How to Make Coconut Cream Lush: A Creamy, No-Bake Dessert for Every Occasion

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter in a bowl. This creates a deliciously crumbly crust that forms the base of your lush dessert. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased dish—this will hold all those creamy layers together beautifully!

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until they’re smooth and creamy. Stir in coconut extract and gently fold in one container of Cool Whip. This layer adds that rich cheesecake texture we love! Spread it evenly over your crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Pudding Layer

In yet another bowl, whisk together instant coconut cream pudding mix with half-and-half until thickened. This step is essential for achieving that luscious pudding consistency that complements our creamy layers so well. Once thickened, spoon it over your cream cheese layer.

Step 4: Add More Whipped Topping

Now it’s time to repeat that fluffy goodness! Spread another container of Cool Whip over the pudding layer as your final layer. It adds lightness and airiness to each bite.

Step 5: Top with Toasted Coconut

Finish off by sprinkling toasted shredded coconut on top—this adds not only flavor but also visual appeal! Cover your dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least six hours (or overnight if you can wait!). This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

And there you have it—a beautiful Coconut Cream Lush ready to be enjoyed at any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Coconut Cream Lush: A Creamy, No-Bake Dessert for Every Occasion

Creating the perfect Coconut Cream Lush is all about those little details that make a big difference. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out fabulous every time!

Use room temperature cream cheese: Allowing your cream cheese to soften at room temperature helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture, making it easier to blend with the other ingredients.
Toast your coconut: Toasting shredded coconut enhances its flavor, adding a delightful crunch and depth to your dessert. Just keep an eye on it in the oven, as it can burn quickly!
Chill for optimal results: Letting your Coconut Cream Lush chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours (or overnight) allows the layers to set properly and meld together, resulting in a more cohesive flavor.
Experiment with flavors: While this recipe shines with coconut, feel free to add a hint of vanilla or almond extract to the cream cheese layer for an extra twist that complements the coconut beautifully.
Consider portion sizes: This dessert serves 18, but you can easily divide it into smaller portions for individual servings—great for parties or gatherings where guests may prefer lighter treats!

How to Serve Coconut Cream Lush: A Creamy, No-Bake Dessert for Every Occasion

Presentation is key when serving Coconut Cream Lush. Its beautiful layers and creamy texture make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any dessert table. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine even brighter.

Garnishes

Toasted coconut flakes: Sprinkle additional toasted coconut on top just before serving for added texture and visual appeal.
Fresh fruit: Add slices of kiwi or mango on top to introduce vibrant colors and fresh flavors that pair perfectly with the coconut.

Side Dishes

Tropical fruit salad: A refreshing mix of pineapple, mango, and berries adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich creaminess of the lush.
Lemon sorbet: The bright citrus notes of lemon sorbet provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet coconut layers, cleansing the palate beautifully after each bite.
Mint tea: Serve a warm cup of mint tea alongside your dessert. The herbal notes will balance the sweetness while providing a soothing finish to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Coconut Cream Lush will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any occasion! Enjoy creating this delightful treat that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Coconut Cream Lush is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or busy weeks.

Storing Leftovers

Cover the dessert tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly as it sits, but it will still be tasty!

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dessert, it’s best to do so before adding the final layer of Cool Whip and toasted coconut.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

This dessert is served chilled, so there’s no need for reheating.
If you prefer a fresh topping after thawing from the freezer, simply spread on fresh Cool Whip and sprinkle with toasted coconut.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this luscious dessert. Here are a few common ones:

How long does Coconut Cream Lush last in the fridge?

Coconut Cream Lush can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well covered to maintain its freshness!

Can I make Coconut Cream Lush ahead of time?

Absolutely! This creamy, no-bake dessert is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day or two in advance; just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I substitute ingredients in Coconut Cream Lush?

Yes! For a dairy-free version, you can use plant-based cream cheese and whipped topping. Adjusting ingredients can make this recipe fit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!

What type of coconut should I use for Coconut Cream Lush?

Sweetened shredded coconut works best for topping your Coconut Cream Lush, especially when toasted. It adds extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Coconut Cream Lush as I do! It’s a delightful treat that brings smiles all around—with its light and creamy layers, it’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, I’m excited for you to enjoy every bite. Happy baking!

Coconut Cream Lush: A Creamy, No-Bake Dessert for Every Occasion

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: Serves about 18 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: Tropical

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Description

Indulge in the delightful layers of our Coconut Cream Lush, a creamy, no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion. This tropical treat features rich coconut flavors and a light texture that everyone will love—making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. With its simple preparation process, you can whip it up quickly, allowing more time to enjoy with friends and family. The luscious combination of cream cheese and coconut pudding layered atop a buttery graham cracker crust will surely impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Prepare this dessert ahead of time and let it chill for the ultimate creamy indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp coconut extract
8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
2 (3.4 oz) boxes of instant coconut cream pudding mix
3 cups half-and-half
8 oz Cool Whip
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

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Instructions

Prepare the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased dish.
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in coconut extract and fold in half of the Cool Whip. Spread over the crust.
In a separate bowl, whisk together pudding mix and half-and-half until thickened. Spoon this mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Spread the remaining Cool Whip on top of the pudding layer.
Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut over the dessert. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least six hours or overnight.