Butterscotch Lush is the ultimate no-bake dessert! With a buttery graham cracker crust, layers of sweetened cream cheese, smooth butterscotch pudding, and fluffy Cool Whip, this dessert is a creamy and decadent treat. It’s simple to make, requires no baking, and is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just when you need a dessert that wows in both taste and presentation.
Easy Butterscotch Lush Recipe
This Butterscotch Lush is light, creamy, and packed with butterscotch flavor in every bite. The graham cracker crust gives it a delicious crunch, while the sweet layers of cream cheese and pudding create a dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s an effortless dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better!
Why Our Butterscotch Lush is the Best
Our Butterscotch Lush is a no-fuss, no-bake dessert that combines the richness of butterscotch pudding with the tangy sweetness of cream cheese and the fluffiness of Cool Whip. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to assemble and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Notes for Butterscotch Lush
Crust:
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 21 graham crackers): Forms the crunchy, buttery base of the dessert.
- 1 cup melted butter: Binds the crumbs together to create a sturdy crust.
- 1 Tbsp sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
Cream Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The base of the creamy layer that adds tang and richness.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese for a smooth and balanced flavor.
- 12 oz Cool Whip (divided): Adds fluffiness to the cream layer and serves as the final topping.
Butterscotch Layer:
- 2 small boxes butterscotch instant pudding mix: Creates a rich and creamy butterscotch layer.
- 3 2/3 cups milk: Used to mix the pudding for a silky texture.
Optional Topping: Sprinkle grated chocolate or crushed Butterfinger candy bars over the top for added crunch and flavor.
Ingredient Tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and rich flavor.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Butterscotch Lush
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- 9×13-inch pan
- Spatula
How to Make Butterscotch Lush
This no-bake dessert comes together in a few simple steps for a stunning result:
1. Prepare the Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup melted butter, and 1 Tbsp sugar.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form the crust.
2. Make the Cream Layer
- Use an electric mixer to beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in half of the Cool Whip (6 oz) until well combined.
- Gently spread this mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
3. Prepare the Butterscotch Layer
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 small boxes of butterscotch pudding mix and 3 2/3 cups milk until smooth and thickened.
- Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly.
4. Add the Final Cream Layer
- Spread the remaining Cool Whip (6 oz) over the butterscotch pudding layer.
5. Chill
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 3 hours, or until fully set and chilled.
6. Garnish and Serve
If desired, sprinkle grated chocolate or crushed Butterfinger candy bars over the top for added decoration and flavor. Slice and serve chilled.
How to Store Butterscotch Lush
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze Butterscotch Lush for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Butterscotch Lush Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Replace the butterscotch pudding with chocolate pudding for a decadent chocolate lush.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Add a layer of peanut butter over the graham cracker crust for a salty-sweet combination.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the Cool Whip topping for added indulgence.
- Oreo Crust: Swap the graham cracker crumbs for crushed Oreos for a chocolatey base.
- Seasonal Flavors: Use pumpkin pudding mix and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fall-inspired lush.
What to Serve With Butterscotch Lush
This rich dessert pairs wonderfully with:
- A cup of hot coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy treat.
- A glass of cold milk, which complements the buttery richness perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfect Butterscotch Lush
- Drain the pudding properly: Whisk the pudding until thickened to avoid a runny layer.
- Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to ensure all the layers set properly.
- Spread gently: Use a spatula to gently spread each layer to avoid mixing them together.
- Use fresh Cool Whip: Make sure it’s fully thawed for easy spreading and a light texture.
- Press the crust firmly: A tightly packed crust will hold its shape better and provide a sturdy base for the layers.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten suggests using full-fat ingredients for the richest and creamiest results in no-bake desserts.
- Mary Berry emphasizes the importance of evenly layering for a professional look in layered desserts.
- Nigella Lawson recommends chilling no-bake desserts overnight for maximum flavor and texture development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! Butterscotch Lush is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher flavor. Whip 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream with 2-3 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Can I use a different crust?
Yes! You can use an Oreo crust, vanilla wafer crust, or even a shortbread crust for a fun twist.
4. Can I use cook-and-serve pudding instead of instant?
It’s best to use instant pudding for this recipe to ensure the layers set properly and quickly.
5. How do I keep the layers from mixing?
Make sure each layer is fully set and chilled before adding the next. Spread each layer gently with a spatula to maintain separation.
This Butterscotch Lush is a creamy, decadent dessert that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether for a family dinner, potluck, or special celebration, this no-bake treat is sure to impress!
Butterscotch Lush Recipe
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- – 3 cups graham cracker crumbs about 21 full graham crackers
- – 1 cup melted butter
- – 1 tablespoon sugar
For the Cream Layer:
- – 8 oz cream cheese softened
- – 1 cup powdered sugar
- – 12 oz Cool Whip thawed (divided)
For the Butterscotch Layer:
- – 2 small boxes butterscotch instant pudding
- – 3 2/3 cups milk
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
- Prepare the Cream Layer: Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the Cool Whip (6 oz). Spread the cream mixture evenly over the crust.
- Make the Butterscotch Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the butterscotch pudding mix and milk until smooth. Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
- Top with Cool Whip: Spread the remaining Cool Whip (6 oz) over the butterscotch pudding layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 3 hours or until fully set.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the top with grated chocolate or crushed Butterfinger candy bars, if desired. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be made a day in advance.
- Feel free to swap out butterscotch pudding for another flavor like chocolate or vanilla if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.