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Coconut Cream Lush is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert for summer gatherings and family celebrations This no bake treat features clouds of creamy coconut nestled between a buttery graham cracker crust and billowy whipped topping Each bite delivers tropical flavors and luscious textures with almost no effort required
When I made this for my book club meeting it disappeared so fast that I had to promise to bring it to every summer potluck after that The way the coconut cream soaks into the crust is just irresistible
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: give the crust a nutty caramel backbone Look for a fresh box with a crisp snap
- Unsalted butter: melts into the crumbs to hold the base together Choose a high quality block for pure flavor
- Cream cheese: adds richness and tang Make sure it is fully softened for a smooth base
- Powdered sugar: sweetens the cream gently and helps the layers set Choose a fine powder with no lumps
- Whipped topping: keeps the texture impossibly light Let it fully thaw so it blends in seamlessly
- Coconut cream: is the star with its velvety tropical punch Use a can labeled coconut cream for best results not coconut milk
- Shredded sweetened coconut: layers in more coconut flavor and chewy texture Look for soft moist shreds that are not dried out
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the sweetness with warmth Pick a good real extract for the best aroma
- Heavy whipping cream: provides a thick stable top layer Chill it before whipping for best volume
- Granulated sugar: supports the whipped cream structure and adds brightness
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl Stir until every crumb is coated and the mixture feels like damp sand Use clean hands to press firmly into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking dish Make sure to get a really even layer so every bite has a sturdy base Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes then cool the pan completely before moving on
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar Beat until there are no lumps and everything is silky Next gently fold in half of the thawed whipped topping Use a rubber spatula so you do not deflate the mixture Spread this airy layer smoothly over the cooled crust
- Mix the Coconut Layer:
- In another clean bowl stir together the coconut cream shredded coconut and vanilla extract The coconut cream might look thick or separated so whisk well until it is homogenous Pour this mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer Use an offset spatula to level it without swirling the layers together
- Whip and Layer the Topping:
- Pour the cold heavy whipping cream into a chilled bowl and add granulated sugar Whip using a hand mixer or stand mixer until you get stiff peaks Take your time so the topping holds its shape Fold in the remaining whipped topping just until combined Spread this as the final layer covering all the coconut mixture below
- Chill and Garnish:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap Place in the refrigerator and chill for at least four hours or better yet overnight This lets everything firm up beautifully Just before serving sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top if you want a pretty snowy finish
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I absolutely love the coconut cream layer It reminds me of beach vacations with my family growing up We would always pick the topping off first for a little sneak taste before dessert was served
Storage Tips
Keep your Coconut Cream Lush chilled and covered in the refrigerator It stores beautifully for up to three days If you want to freeze leftovers cut into squares and wrap individually so you can pull out single portions as needed Let them thaw a bit before serving for the best creamy texture
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap graham cracker crumbs for vanilla wafer crumbs or even shortbread for a slightly different base If coconut cream is unavailable use full fat coconut milk for a lighter texture Dairy free whipped topping can be substituted for a fully plant based version
Serving Suggestions
Serve cold in neat squares with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for crunch A dash of lime zest on top adds a fresh zing For a fancier presentation use a piping bag for the whipped topping layer and garnish with fresh berries to complement the coconut flavor
Cultural and Historical Context
Lush desserts like this one are classic at Southern gatherings and retro potlucks They likely evolved as a quick way to bring impressive layered sweets to the table with minimal effort The tropical coconut flavors make this version stand out and always remind people of summer vacations and old fashioned church socials
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Coconut Cream Lush is a guaranteed hit at any gathering and can easily become a favorite make-ahead dessert Treat yourself to a taste of summer with this cool creamy layered classic
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of coconut cream is best to use?
Choose a sweetened coconut cream for extra richness and authentic tropical flavor. Avoid unsweetened coconut milk, as it won’t provide the same texture or sweetness.
- → Can I use a different crust?
Yes! A chocolate cookie crust adds a deeper flavor, or you can try vanilla wafers for a lighter touch.
- → How long should it chill for best results?
Chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal to ensure all layers set perfectly and flavors meld together.
- → Can I make this dessert in advance?
Absolutely. Prepare up to 24 hours ahead. Keep refrigerated and add extra coconut topping just before serving for freshness.
- → What variations are possible?
Add crushed pineapple to the coconut layer or switch up the crust for variety. You can also top with toasted coconut or chopped nuts.
- → Is this dessert suitable for freezing?
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the whipped layers may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, enjoy fresh from the refrigerator.