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Imagine yourself at a family gathering, surrounded by laughter and the delightful aroma of dessert in the air. One dessert in particular stands out—a Butterscotch Lush. This delectable treat combines the rich, creamy flavors of butterscotch pudding with a satisfying graham cracker crust, creating a symphony of tastes and textures that dance across your palate. This layered dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but a delight for the taste buds, promising to be the highlight of any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Butterscotch Lush is a showstopper dessert that you’ll fall in love with at first bite. The combination of creamy layers and crunchy crust is divine, while the butterscotch and chocolate shavings add an extra touch of indulgence. It’s easy to make, yet looks impressively sophisticated, making it perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8 baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife for shaving chocolate
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 (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Cream Cheese Layer
- Use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until fluffy.
- Gradually add in 2 cups of heavy cream, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Spread this creamy mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust.
Pudding Layer
- In a bowl, beat the milk and butterscotch pudding mix until combined. Add more milk if needed, to achieve a pourable but thick consistency.
- Carefully spread this layer over the cream cheese layer.
Whipped Cream Layer
- Beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.
- Spread this whipped cream over the pudding layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Toppings (optional)
- Drizzle the butterscotch topping over the dessert.
- Sprinkle with shaved chocolate for an added touch of elegance.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth mixture.
- Chill the dessert thoroughly to allow layers to set properly.
- For a firmer graham cracker crust, press down well before baking.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a twist, try using different flavored puddings, like chocolate or vanilla, to suit your taste. You can also add a layer of chopped nuts for added texture.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 6g
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 serving.
What if I don’t have butterscotch pudding? You can substitute with vanilla or chocolate pudding for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Are you ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious Butterscotch Lush? Give it a try and see how this easy-to-make dessert becomes the star of the show. Don’t forget to share your creations and experiences in the comments below. Happy baking!
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