No-bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a rich, creamy, and coconutty dessert that requires no oven time at all. This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert combines layers of dreamy coconut pudding, whipped topping, and a crumbly cookie crust, making it a refreshing treat for any occasion. I discovered this recipe during a family gathering, and it’s been a staple ever since – a perfect blend of light, tropical flavors and a luxurious, creamy texture.

Ready to dive into a tropical paradise with this easy, no-fuss dessert? Let’s get started with why you’ll love it.

Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert

Get ready to meet your new favorite dessert for every occasion – from summer barbecues to holiday gatherings. Here’s why this No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert is bound to become a hit in your recipe rotation.

First, it’s a breeze to make. You won’t need to turn on your oven, so it’s ideal for those warmer days or whenever you want something low-effort. Just layer, chill, and enjoy – it’s that simple.

The flavors are irresistibly light and tropical. With a combination of creamy coconut pudding, whipped topping, and crunchy cookie layers, each bite is a blend of textures and flavors that’ll have you reaching for seconds.

This dessert is also crowd-pleasing and can be prepared ahead of time. Make it the day before, and it’ll be perfectly chilled and set by the time your guests arrive.

Lastly, it’s versatile. Whether you want to add extra toppings or switch up the base, this dessert is adaptable and can be customized to your liking.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient adds its own touch to create a harmonious, refreshing, and creamy dessert experience.

• Graham Cracker Crust: The base of this dessert is made with crushed graham crackers, butter, and a hint of sugar. You can use premade graham cracker crumbs or crush your own. For a twist, try using vanilla wafers or crushed Oreos instead.
• Cream Cheese Layer: The cream cheese layer is made with softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped topping. This adds a tangy richness to balance the sweet coconut flavors. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps.
• Coconut Pudding: Instant coconut pudding mix gives this dessert its main flavor. Simply combine with milk and whisk until smooth. The pudding layer is thick and creamy, bringing out that tropical coconut taste.
• Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, whipped topping is layered in between, creating a soft and airy contrast to the pudding. Feel free to use homemade whipped cream if you prefer, but store-bought whipped topping keeps things easy.
• Shredded Coconut: Toasted coconut flakes add a lovely texture and extra coconut flavor on top. Toasting the coconut isn’t necessary, but it does add a rich, nutty flavor.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe – just a mixing bowl, whisk, and a baking dish for layering.

How to Make This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert

Making this No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert is as easy as layering, chilling, and serving. Here’s how to make this crowd-pleaser from start to finish.

1. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a bit of sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pop the crust in the fridge to firm up while you prepare the other layers.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Fold in half of the whipped topping until combined. Spread this layer evenly over the chilled crust, creating a smooth base for the coconut layer.
3. Add the Coconut Pudding Layer: Whisk together the coconut pudding mix with cold milk until thickened. Pour this over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly. The pudding will add a rich, coconut-flavored layer to the dessert.
4. Top with Whipped Topping and Coconut: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the coconut pudding layer, smoothing it to the edges. Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top for garnish. For a bit of extra texture, you can even add slivered almonds or white chocolate shavings.
5. Chill Before Serving: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or until the layers are fully set. For best results, let it chill overnight so the flavors meld together beautifully.

When you’re ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy the layers of creamy, coconut bliss.

Storage Options

One of the best parts about this dessert is how well it stores. Here are some storage tips to keep your No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert fresh and delicious.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in the fridge, tightly covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. The dessert may start to soften after this time but will still taste great.
• Freezer: While you can freeze this dessert, the texture of the whipped topping and pudding layers may change upon thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic and store it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Make-Ahead Option: This dessert is ideal for making a day ahead, giving it plenty of time to chill and set. Just wait to add the toasted coconut topping until you’re ready to serve so it stays crisp.

When reheating individual portions, a short time in the fridge will help re-set the layers and maintain its fresh flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert is versatile, with plenty of ways to make it your own.

• Add a Chocolate Twist: Layer some chocolate pudding along with the coconut pudding for a chocolate-coconut flavor combination. You can also sprinkle mini chocolate chips or drizzle chocolate syrup on top.
• Use Different Cookies for the Crust: While graham crackers work wonderfully, you could switch to a vanilla wafer crust for added sweetness, or crushed Oreos if you’re a chocolate lover.
• Try with Pineapple: Add a tropical twist by layering crushed pineapple (drained) between the cream cheese and pudding layers. The sweet and tangy pineapple flavor pairs perfectly with coconut.
• Go Nuts with Garnishes: Feel free to get creative with toppings. Try adding slivered almonds, chopped macadamia nuts, or a sprinkle of white chocolate shavings for an extra decadent finish.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute with dairy-free cream cheese, coconut milk whipped topping, and plant-based coconut pudding mix if needed for a lactose-free version.

With so many delicious variations, you’ll never run out of ways to make this dessert uniquely yours. Enjoy the no-bake ease and tropical flavor twist, and get ready to wow your friends and family!

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