Name: Coconut Cream Lush Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12–14 graham cracker sheets); 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened (2–8 ounce blocks); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp coconut extract; 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed; 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant coconut cream pudding mix (or one 6.8 oz box); 3 cups half-and-half (or whole milk); 8 oz Cool Whip; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

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Introduction

Coconut Cream Lush is a luscious layered dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy coconut cheesecake, smooth coconut pudding, and a fluffy whipped topping. It’s the perfect tropical treat to impress guests or satisfy a sweet craving with minimal effort.

The image shows a layered dessert in a glass dish with four visible layers: a light brown crumbly base at the bottom, a thick creamy white middle layer, a golden yellow layer above it, and a fluffy white whipped topping sprinkled with toasted coconut flakes. Each layer looks smooth and even, and the whipped topping is soft with small peaks. The background surface is white with a marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

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

For the Coconut Cheesecake Layer:

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

For the Coconut Pudding Layer:

2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant coconut cream pudding mix (or one 6.8 oz box)
3 cups half-and-half (or whole milk)

For the Topping:

8 oz Cool Whip
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, toasted

Instructions

Step 1: Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated and slightly damp. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan. Freeze while preparing the next layer.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in coconut extract. Fold in thawed Cool Whip until creamy and well combined. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return the pan to the freezer.
Step 3: In another large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and half-and-half for about 2 minutes until thickened. Spread the pudding evenly over the cheesecake layer, smoothing the surface.
Step 4: Spread the remaining Cool Whip over the pudding layer. Toast shredded coconut on a baking sheet at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown. Let cool, then sprinkle over the top of the dessert.
Step 5: Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to set. Slice into squares and serve chilled for best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use half-and-half for richer pudding, or whole milk for a lighter version.
For extra crunch, press chopped macadamia nuts or toasted pecans into the crust.
Substitute coconut extract with vanilla extract if you prefer a milder flavor.
Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.

Storage

Store the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. Leftovers can be reheated slightly at room temperature for 10 minutes, but this dessert is best enjoyed cold to maintain texture and flavor.

How to Serve

The image shows a layered dessert in a clear glass dish with four visible layers. The bottom layer is a light brown crumbly crust, smooth and compact. Above that is a thick, creamy pale yellow custard layer that looks soft and rich. The third layer is a fluffy, white whipped cream spread evenly on top of the custard. The top layer has a sprinkling of finely shredded toasted coconut that is golden brown, adding texture and color contrast. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs in place of regular crumbs to make this dessert suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I prepare Coconut Cream Lush ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert benefits from resting overnight to allow the layers to set fully and flavors to meld, making it an ideal make-ahead treat.