Description
Toasted Coconut Vanilla Lush is a creamy no-bake layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious vanilla cheesecake filling, silky vanilla pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and toasted coconut. This tropical-inspired dessert is perfect for potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, divided
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut, toasted and divided
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract (optional)
- White chocolate curls for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet or a 325°F (163°C) oven until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and coconut extract (if using). Mix until creamy.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping and 1/2 cup of the toasted coconut.
- Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the chilled crust.
- Whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Spread the pudding evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Top with the remaining whipped topping.
- Sprinkle the remaining toasted coconut evenly over the top.
- Garnish with white chocolate curls if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Allow the toasted coconut to cool completely before adding it to the dessert.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping.
- Macadamia nuts or chopped pecans make a delicious crunchy topping.
- Chilling overnight produces cleaner slices and the best texture.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American