Here’s a delightful recipe for Lemon Cheesecake Delight—a layered, creamy dessert with a tangy lemon flavor that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub whipped topping)
Lemon Layer:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant lemon pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for sweetening)
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated and moistened.
- Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes while you prepare the other layers.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Fold in the whipped cream (or whipped topping) until light and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
3. Prepare the Lemon Layer:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Spread the lemon pudding mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
4. Whipped Topping:
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with a hand mixer until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar for sweetness, if desired.
- Spread the whipped cream (or whipped topping) over the lemon pudding layer.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set.
- Before serving, garnish with lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for parties or gatherings.
- Variations: For a more intense lemon flavor, you can add a bit of fresh lemon juice or lemon extract to the cream cheese layer.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Lemon Cheesecake Delight is light, creamy, and full of refreshing lemon flavor—a perfect treat for lemon lovers!