Butterscotch Lush is a creamy dessert that’s oh-so-sweet and totally irresistible! With a layer of butterscotch pudding, cream cheese, and whipped topping, it feels like a hug in a dish.
Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked! I love serving it chilled—it’s like a mini celebration every time I take a spoonful. Perfect for sharing (or not! 😉)!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the crunchy base of your dessert. If you’re out of graham crackers, use crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers for a different flavor.
Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the lush its rich texture. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, you can use a cream cheese alternative made from nuts or tofu.
Instant Butterscotch Pudding Mix: This is essential for that butterscotch flavor. If you can’t find it, vanilla pudding mix works as a substitute, though the flavor will be less intense. You can also make homemade pudding for a fresh twist!
Toffee Bits: These add a lovely crunch. If you want a nut-free option or can’t find toffee bits, try crushed pretzels or even chocolate chips for a different texture and flavor.
How Do You Get the Cream Cheese Layer Smooth?
Getting the cream cheese layer smooth can be tricky if not done properly. Start with softened cream cheese; this is key! It should be at room temperature, making it easier to blend with the powdered sugar.
- Beat the cream cheese alone first until smooth before adding sugar.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually; this helps incorporate air and avoids lumps.
- When folding in the whipped topping, do it gently to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
How to Make Butterscotch Lush?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
For The Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
For The Butterscotch Layer:
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant butterscotch pudding mix
- 4 cups milk
- ½ cup toffee bits (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful butterscotch lush takes about 20 minutes to prepare, followed by a chill time of at least 4 hours (or overnight for the best flavor). So, plan to give it some time to set before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ⅓ cup of powdered sugar together. Use a fork to stir until everything is well combined. Next, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create an even layer. Set it aside while you make the next layer!
2. Making the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of powdered sugar until it’s nice and smooth. Then, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a spatula. Once that’s all mixed and creamy, spread it evenly over the graham cracker crust in your baking dish.
3. Preparing the Butterscotch Layer:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the two packages of instant butterscotch pudding mix and the 4 cups of cold milk for about 2 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening up nicely. Once done, pour this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Adding the Toffee Bits:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the toffee bits over the layer of butterscotch pudding. Give them a little press down so they stick into the pudding, making sure they’re evenly distributed for that extra crunch!
5. Finishing with Whipped Topping:
Take your remaining whipped topping and spread it gently over the toffee bits, smoothing it out to cover everything completely. For a pretty touch, add some extra toffee bits on top as a garnish.
6. Chilling the Lush:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but if you can wait until overnight, it’ll taste even better!
7. Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, take the dish out of the fridge and cut the butterscotch lush into squares. Enjoy every creamy, sweet bite of this layered treat!
Can I Substitute the Graham Cracker Crust?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free cookies or even almond flour mixed with melted butter. For a chocolate twist, try using chocolate sandwich cookies instead of graham crackers!
What Can I Use Instead of Whipped Topping?
If you prefer a homemade version, you can whip up your own heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This will give you a fresh taste while still keeping the layering texture similar!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The layers might get a bit soft over time, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Can I Use Different Pudding Flavors?
Yes! While butterscotch is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or even banana cream for a unique twist. Just remember to maintain the same amount of pudding mix and milk for the best consistency!
