BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH
The other night, while spending time with my best friend, we found ourselves rummaging through my pantry in search of a fun recipe to try. I stumbled upon a couple of packages of butterscotch pudding, which just happen to be my favorite! Inspired by a chocolate lush her family often makes for gatherings, I decided to create a Butterscotch Lush. This amazing layered dessert, with its creamy and sweet layers, turned out to be everything I hoped for and more. As I licked the bowl after tasting each layer, I knew this recipe was going to be magical.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Butterscotch Lush is an irresistible 4-layer dessert featuring a graham cracker crust, a luscious cream cheese layer, creamy pudding, and a topping of whipped cream. It’s finished with a drizzle of butterscotch and chocolate shavings, making each bite heavenly. It’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it the star of any dessert table.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer
- Spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1.5 cups graham crackers, crushed
- 1 stick butter (1/2 cup), melted
- 1/2 cup sugar
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
Pudding Layer:
- 2.5 cups milk
- 2 small packages butterscotch instant pudding
Whipped Cream Layer:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
Toppings (optional):
- Butterscotch ice cream topping
- Chocolate bar, shaved
Step-by-Step Instructions
Graham Cracker Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8×8 baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes and then let it cool.
Cream Cheese Layer:
- Use a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese and sugar until fluffy.
- Add in the 2 cups of heavy cream and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread this mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust.
Pudding Layer:
- Beat the milk and pudding mix together. If it’s too thick, gradually add a bit more milk until it’s pourable yet thick.
- Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Whipped Cream Layer:
- Beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
- Spread this over the pudding layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Toppings (optional):
- Drizzle warmed butterscotch topping across the top.
- Sprinkle with shaved chocolate pieces.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing for a smoother texture.
- Chill the dessert for the full 4 hours to help the layers set properly.
- Use a sharp knife to slice through the dessert neatly, wiping the blade clean between cuts.
Additional Tips or Variations
- For a nutty twist, add a layer of chopped pecans on top of the graham cracker crust.
- Try using different pudding flavors, such as chocolate or vanilla, for a new taste experience.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This recipe is a delightful treat, so enjoy in moderation! Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, Butterscotch Lush can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! A shortbread or even an Oreo cookie crust would be delicious alternatives.
Conclusion
If you crave a dessert that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, give this Butterscotch Lush a try. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so feel free to share your experiences and any creative variations you come up with!