Luscious Lemon Delight
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Lemon Pudding Layer:
2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
For the Topping:
1 1/2 cups whipped topping
Lemon zest (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the Crust:
In a bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans (if using). Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. Spread this layer evenly over the cooled crust.
Make the Lemon Pudding Layer:
In another bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and cold milk until thick and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Let it sit for a minute to set, then spread it over the cream cheese layer.
Top with Whipped Topping:
Spread the remaining 1 1/2 cups of whipped topping over the lemon pudding layer. Garnish with lemon zest if desired for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving to let the layers set.