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Lemon Lush

A creamy and zesty dessert layered over a cookie crust, reminiscent of childhood summers spent in a grandmother's kitchen.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 12 squares
Course: Dessert, Summer Treat
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1.5 cups crushed graham crackers freshly crushed for best flavor
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.33 cups granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened for a richer taste, consider using full-fat
  • 1 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cups whipped topping or you can use homemade whipped cream
For the Lemon Layer
  • 1 cups fresh lemon juice approximately 4-5 lemons
  • 1 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs organic for the freshest flavor
  • 0.25 cups cornstarch
  • 1 whole lemon, zest grate only the yellow part

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
Cream Cheese Layer
  1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
  2. Add the powdered sugar and continue to mix until well combined.
  3. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Spread this layer evenly over the cooled crust.
Lemon Layer
  1. In a saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, granulated sugar, eggs, cornstarch, and lemon zest.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Combine and Chill
  1. Pour the lemon mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread it evenly.
  2. Refrigerate the entire dish for at least 4 hours, or until set. For optimal flavor, let it chill overnight.
Serve
  1. Once set, cut into squares and garnish with additional whipped topping or lemon zest if desired.
  2. Serve chilled for the best experience.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Add nuts for crunch if desired. For a vegetarian version, replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.