Description
Butterscotch Lush is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring a graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, rich butterscotch pudding, and topped with fluffy whipped topping. This indulgent treat is perfect for sweet gatherings and is easy to assemble with instant pudding and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 10 tablespoons butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
Butterscotch Pudding Layer
- 2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant butterscotch pudding mix
- 3 cups half and half (whole milk can be used)
Topping
- 8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
- Butterscotch morsels, chopped pecans, chopped Heath candy bars, butterscotch sauce drizzle (optional topping ideas)
Instructions
- Prep: Get a 9×13 baking pan and set it aside to prepare for layering the dessert.
- Make the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, light brown sugar, and melted butter in a medium mixing bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the 9×13 baking pan to form an even crust. Place the pan in the freezer for 20 minutes to set while preparing the other layers.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 8 ounces of thawed Cool Whip with a spatula or wooden spoon until well combined.
- Make the Butterscotch Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant butterscotch pudding mix and half and half for 1-2 minutes until it starts to thicken. Set it aside for about 3 minutes to thicken further.
- Assemble the Butterscotch Lush: Remove the crust from the freezer. Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the crust, making sure to reach the edges. Next, spread the thickened butterscotch pudding over the cheesecake layer. Finally, spread the remaining 8 ounces of Cool Whip evenly on top as the final layer.
- Refrigerate: Cover the pan with a lid or plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow all layers to set firmly and flavors to marry.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the dessert with butterscotch chips, chopped Heath candy bars, chopped pecans, or a drizzle of butterscotch sauce if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing and decadent treat.
Notes
- This dessert requires chilling time to set properly, so plan ahead.
- You can substitute whole milk for half and half in the pudding mix for a lighter option.
- Optional toppings add flavor and texture, but the dessert is delicious as-is.
- Keep leftovers refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: butterscotch lush, no-bake dessert, layered dessert, butterscotch pudding dessert, cream cheese dessert, graham cracker crust dessert
