Irresistible No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush: The Ultimate Easy Dessert Recipe
Prepare to fall in love with this Coconut Cream Lush recipe – a truly light, incredibly creamy, and utterly delicious no-bake dessert bursting with tropical coconut flavor. This layered masterpiece begins with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a fluffy, sweetened whipped cream cheese layer. Next, a thick, rich, and creamy coconut pudding layer adds depth, all crowned with a pillowy cloud of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a refreshing escape with every spoonful.
Why This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Will Be Your New Favorite Dessert
This easy no-bake coconut cream lush recipe is an absolute game-changer, especially during those warm weather days when turning on the oven feels like a chore. Say goodbye to baking anxieties and hello to a simple, satisfying dessert that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a cool, creamy, and undeniably refreshing experience. Each layer delivers a burst of tropical coconut deliciousness, making it an ideal treat for spring and summer gatherings. The combination of textures – from the crisp crust to the smooth cheesecake and pudding, topped with airy whipped cream – creates a truly memorable bite every time. This coconut cream delight is also perfect for feeding a crowd, making it an excellent choice for potlucks, barbecues, family parties, or festive holidays. Its generous size ensures everyone gets a slice of pure joy.
Lush desserts, often described as a layered “lasagna-type” dessert, are renowned for their incredible textures and flavors. They are designed to be cool and refreshing, making them essential additions to any warm-weather celebration. This specific coconut lush takes that concept and elevates it with its rich, exotic coconut notes, creating a dessert that feels both familiar and special. It’s a wonderfully versatile recipe that allows for simple customizations, ensuring it can be tailored to your taste and event needs.
If you’re looking for other fantastic dessert options, be sure to check out some of our other favorites like our Homemade Coconut Cream Pie, Oatmeal Fudge Bars, Chewy Snickerdoodle Bars, Southern Peach Pie Recipe, Strawberry Shortcake Recipe, and our Easy Eggless Key Lime Pie. Each offers a unique and delightful experience!
For a complete list of all ingredients, precise measurements, and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down on this page.
Effortless Steps: How to Make This Delicious No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush
Creating this stunning Coconut Cream Lush is surprisingly straightforward, thanks to its no-bake nature and simple layering process. Each step is designed for ease, ensuring you get a picture-perfect and incredibly tasty dessert every time. Follow these simple instructions to assemble your own dreamy coconut masterpiece.
- Begin by preparing your crust. Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal later. In a medium bowl, combine the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and thoroughly melted butter. Mix these ingredients until they are well combined and resemble wet sand. This forms the essential base for your lush dessert. Press this crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. A firm press ensures a stable crust that won’t crumble when cut. Once pressed, place the pan in the freezer to chill and set while you move on to preparing the next delicious layer. This quick chill helps solidify the crust, preventing it from becoming soggy.
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF. This step is for toasting the shredded coconut, which adds a fantastic nutty flavor and a beautiful golden color to your finished dessert. Spread 1 cup of shredded coconut in a single, even layer on a small baking sheet. Toast it in the preheated oven for approximately 8-10 minutes, making sure to stir it halfway through the baking time. This ensures even toasting. It’s crucial to watch the coconut very closely during this process, as it can burn quickly due to its high sugar content. Once golden brown and fragrant, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
- For the creamy coconut cheesecake layer, take a large mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and coconut extract. Use an electric hand mixer to beat these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth, lump-free, and well combined. The softened cream cheese is key here for a silky texture. Next, gently fold in half of your thawed whipped cream topping until it’s thoroughly integrated, creating an airy, cheesecake-like consistency. Spread this luxurious coconut cheesecake mixture evenly over your chilled graham cracker crust, ensuring it reaches all edges of the pan. Place the pan back into the freezer to set while you prepare the next decadent layer.
- Now for the creamy coconut pudding layer. In another large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant coconut cream pudding mix and half-and-half (or whole milk, as per your preference) for a full 2 minutes. Continue whisking until the pudding mixture begins to thicken considerably. Instant pudding is a fantastic shortcut, providing rich flavor and perfect consistency without any cooking. Once thickened, gently spread this delightful coconut pudding layer over the top of the set cheesecake layer, again ensuring it reaches all the way to the edges of the pan for a neat, even appearance.
- To complete your Coconut Cream Lush, spread the remaining container of Cool Whip over the very top layer, creating a beautiful, fluffy white finish. For a touch of elegance and an extra pop of coconut flavor, generously sprinkle the cooled, toasted coconut flakes over the whipped topping. This not only adds visual appeal but also a delightful textural contrast. Once garnished, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate your lush dessert for a minimum of 6 hours, or ideally, overnight. This crucial chilling time allows all the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a perfect, sliceable dessert.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Coconut Cream Lush
Achieving a truly spectacular no-bake dessert like this Coconut Cream Lush is all about the little details. These expert tips will help ensure your layers are smooth, your flavors are robust, and your presentation is flawless.
- Ensure the Cream Cheese is Properly Softened: This is a non-negotiable step for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer. Cold cream cheese will result in a grainy texture. For best results, leave your cream cheese at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until it’s easily spreadable. You can also gently warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you’re short on time, but be careful not to melt it.
- Crushing Graham Crackers: If you’re using whole graham cracker sheets instead of pre-crushed crumbs, a food processor is your best friend. Pulse them on high until they form fine, even crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a Ziploc bag, seal it, and crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy glass. Consistency is key for a uniform crust.
- Utilize an Offset Spatula for Even Layers: An offset spatula is an invaluable tool for spreading the creamy layers smoothly and evenly right to the edges of the pan. Its angled blade helps you apply gentle, consistent pressure, preventing you from digging into previous layers and ensuring a beautiful, flat surface for each subsequent layer.
- Patience with Chilling Time: Lush desserts are designed to be make-ahead desserts, and they truly shine when given ample time to chill. While 6 hours is the minimum, chilling your Coconut Cream Lush overnight in the refrigerator allows the layers to firm up completely and the flavors to meld beautifully, intensifying the overall taste and texture. Don’t rush this step!
- Achieving Clean Slices: For bakery-worthy, clean slices, a sharp knife is essential. Before each cut, run the knife under warm water, then wipe it clean with a paper towel. This prevents the creamy layers from sticking and dragging, giving you perfect portions every time.
- Properly Thawing Cool Whip: For the best consistency, thaw your Cool Whip in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Avoid thawing it at room temperature, as this can make it too soft and watery, affecting the texture of your cheesecake and topping layers.
- Enhance Flavor with Quality Coconut Extract: The quality of your coconut extract can significantly impact the final flavor. Opt for a high-quality extract for a more authentic and pronounced coconut taste that truly elevates this dessert.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Coconut Cream Lush
This Coconut Cream Lush recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to easily customize it to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these exciting variations!
- Milk Options for the Pudding Layer: You can experiment with different milk types for the coconut pudding layer. While half-and-half provides a rich, creamy texture, full-fat coconut milk can be used for an even more intense tropical flavor and a slightly denser pudding. Whole milk also works well for a classic, smooth pudding consistency. Each option offers a subtle difference in richness and coconut flavor profile.
- Homemade Whipped Cream Alternative: For those who prefer a homemade touch, you can absolutely replace store-bought Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream. To make it, use an electric mixer to beat 3 cups of cold heavy cream with 3/4 cup of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Divide this mixture in half: use one half in the cream cheese layer for a richer cheesecake, and spread the remaining half over the top as your final, luxurious topping. Keep in mind homemade whipped cream is less stable than Cool Whip, especially if freezing.
- Crust Alternatives for a New Twist: The graham cracker crust is classic, but you can easily replace it for a different flavor base. Consider using Golden Oreo cookies (crushed finely) for a vanilla-infused crust, or vanilla wafers for a lighter, buttery flavor. For a more unique twist, shortbread cookies or even a crushed butter cookie base would be delightful.
- Add a Fruity Layer: For an extra burst of freshness, consider adding a thin layer of finely diced mango or pineapple between the cheesecake and pudding layers. Ensure the fruit is well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Chocolate Coconut Lush: Introduce a hint of chocolate by adding mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer or drizzling melted chocolate over the top whipped cream layer before adding the toasted coconut.
- Citrus Zest Boost: A little bit of fresh lime or orange zest sprinkled into the cheesecake layer can brighten the overall flavor, adding a zesty counterpoint to the sweetness of the coconut.
Frequently Asked Questions About Coconut Cream Lush
Got questions about making or storing your Coconut Cream Lush? We’ve got answers to help you ensure your dessert is perfect every time.
To maintain its freshness and delicious texture, cover your Coconut Cream Lush tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. An airtight container is ideal to prevent it from absorbing any refrigerator odors and to keep the layers from drying out.
Yes, you can freeze most layered lush desserts, including this Coconut Cream Lush! Freezing can extend its shelf life significantly. However, a word of caution: if you’ve opted to use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip, the texture might change slightly after thawing. Homemade whipped cream has a higher water content and can sometimes separate or become a bit grainy upon thawing. Cool Whip tends to hold up better. To freeze, cover the dessert tightly with multiple layers of plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best results.
While you can use light cream cheese, the texture of the cheesecake layer might be slightly less rich and firm. For sugar substitutes, you can replace powdered sugar with powdered erythritol or a similar granulated sugar substitute. However, always check the brand’s recommended conversion rates, as sweetness levels can vary.
The most common reason for a pudding not setting is not whisking it long enough or not using very cold milk/half-and-half. Ensure your dairy product is thoroughly chilled and whisk for the full 2 minutes, or even a bit longer if it’s still thin. If it’s still too loose, try chilling the pudding mixture in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before spreading it over the cheesecake layer.
More Irresistible No-Bake Dessert Recipes
If you love the ease and deliciousness of this No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our fantastic no-bake dessert creations that are perfect for any occasion and won’t require you to turn on your oven.
No Bake Samoa Cake (icebox cake)
Lemon Icebox Cake
Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Coconut Cream Lush Recipe
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Ingredients
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
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
Coconut Pudding Layer
- 2 3.4oz Instant coconut cream pudding mix or a 6.8 oz box
- 3 cups Half-and-half or whole milk
Whipped Topping
- 8 oz Cool Whip
- 1 cup Sweetened shredded coconut toasted
Instructions
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Spray a 9×13 baking pan with non-stick spray. This will help with easy serving later.
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Preheat oven to 350ºF. Spread the shredded coconut out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast for 8-10 minutes until golden brown, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. WATCH CLOSELY, as coconut can burn very quickly! Remove from oven and let cool completely.1 cup Sweetened shredded coconut
Crust
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In a medium-size bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until everything is incorporated. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan to create a solid base. Place in the freezer to chill while you prepare the next layer.1 1/2 cups Graham cracker crumbs, 2 tbsp Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup Unsalted butter
Coconut Cheesecake Layer
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and coconut extract with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Gently fold in 8 oz (half a container) of thawed whipped cream topping until no streaks remain. Spread this luscious coconut cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, ensuring it reaches all the edges of the pan. Place the pan back into the freezer to set while you prepare the next layer.16 oz Cream cheese, 1 cup Powdered sugar, 1 tsp Coconut extract, 8 oz Cool Whip
Coconut Pudding Layer
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In another large bowl, whisk the instant coconut cream pudding mixes with the cold half-and-half (or whole milk) for exactly 2 minutes. Continue whisking until the pudding starts to visibly thicken to a desirable consistency. Spread this creamy coconut pudding layer evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer, ensuring it covers the entire surface right to the edges.2 3.4oz Instant coconut cream pudding mix, 3 cups Half-and-half
Topping
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Spread the remaining container of Cool Whip over the top of the pudding layer, creating a final fluffy white topping. Garnish generously with the cooled, toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and visual appeal. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or ideally overnight, before slicing and serving. This chilling time is crucial for the layers to set and flavors to fully develop.8 oz Cool Whip
Notes
Regarding the liquid for the pudding layer, I have successfully used both full-fat coconut milk and whole milk. Both options work well in this layered dessert, offering slightly different richness and coconut intensity. Choose based on your preference for creaminess and flavor.