This Easy Butterscotch Lush Dessert is layers of deliciousness! With creamy butterscotch pudding, whipped cream, and a crunchy crust, it’s a treat for your taste buds.
If you love dessert that feels special but is a breeze to make, this one’s for you! I like to eat it straight from the dish – who needs plates, right? 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the crust. If you’re gluten-free, you can use crushed almond flour or gluten-free cookies instead. Both give a great crunch!
Unsalted Butter: This is essential for binding the crust. You can substitute with coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free option. Just remember, it might slightly alter the flavor.
Cream Cheese: It adds creaminess to the dessert. If you’re looking for lighter options, use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. Both work surprisingly well!
Whipped Topping: I love Cool Whip, but for a homemade version, you can whip heavy cream with a touch of sugar. If avoiding dairy, go for coconut whipped cream!
Butterscotch Pudding Mix: This gives the dessert its delicious flavor. If you can’t find butterscotch, vanilla pudding is a fine swap, or consider making your own from scratch.
How Do I Create a Perfect Layered Look?
Achieving that beautiful layered look is all about careful assembly. Make sure each layer is evenly spread and leveled to avoid leaking or mixing. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly but gently without crushing it too much.
- Soften the cream cheese adequately to mix easily with powdered sugar. This prevents lumps.
- When adding the pudding, let it thicken before pouring. This ensures it sets well on the cream cheese layer.
Lastly, keep your dessert chilled as it sets. The layers will hold better, and it will slice beautifully!
How to Make Easy Butterscotch Lush Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 box (14.4 oz) graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip)
For the Pudding Layer:
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) butterscotch instant pudding mix
- 4 cups cold milk
For the Topping:
- Crushed toffee bits or butterscotch chips for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take you about 20 minutes to prepare, plus a minimum of 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, letting it sit overnight is ideal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a solid crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes until lightly browned. Let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to mix, until it’s all combined. Gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping, being careful not to deflate it. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
3. Make the Pudding Layer:
In another bowl, whisk together both packages of butterscotch pudding mix and the cold milk. Mix well until it’s smooth, then let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken up. Once it’s thickened, pour the pudding over the cream cheese layer. Spread it evenly for a beautiful finish!
4. Complete with Topping:
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. To make it extra special, sprinkle crushed toffee bits or butterscotch chips on top for some crunch and added sweetness.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—preferably overnight—to let everything set and the flavors come together. When you’re ready, cut it into squares, serve chilled, and enjoy every delicious, creamy bite!
There you have it—a deceptively simple yet spectacular dessert that’s bound to impress friends and family. Enjoy your Easy Butterscotch Lush Dessert!
FAQ for Easy Butterscotch Lush Dessert
Can I Use Low-Fat Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can substitute low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping for a lighter version of this dessert. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover the top with plastic wrap to keep the toppings crispy!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it up to a day in advance; just remember to let it chill overnight so that all the layers set properly and the flavors meld together.
What Can I Use Instead of Butterscotch Pudding Mix?
If you can’t find butterscotch pudding mix, vanilla pudding is a great alternative. You can also try making a homemade butterscotch pudding if you have the time—just ensure to adjust the ratios of milk and sugar accordingly!
