BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH Recipe

If you’re ready to meet the show-stopping dessert that will steal every get-together, let me introduce you to BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH! This layered treat is pure comfort in a pan, stacking a buttery graham cracker crust, dreamy cream cheese filling, luscious butterscotch pudding, and a thick blanket of Cool Whip. It comes together without fuss or oven time and delivers that classic butterscotch flavor in the creamiest, most irresistible package imaginable. Trust me—one bite of this retro favorite, and you’ll be the hero of every potluck, picnic, and family gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH lies in its simplicity: each ingredient plays a key role, building up a harmony of textures and flavors that truly shine in every bite. Don’t skip these essentials—they’re the secret to the magic!

• Graham cracker crumbs: The base of our lush, these bring a classic, golden crunch—pulverize about 21 full crackers for the best flavor.
• Melted butter: This binds the crumbs into a rich, cohesive crust, giving every forkful a melt-in-your-mouth feeling.
• Sugar: Just a tablespoon jazzes up the crust, balancing out the gentle bitterness of the graham crackers.
• Cream cheese (softened): Aim for room temperature so it blends smoothly and gives the middle layer its signature tangy creaminess.
• Powdered sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese without any grittiness, for delicate, cloudlike sweetness.
• Cool Whip (thawed, divided): This shortcut topping gives the dessert its signature pillowy finish and helps fluff up the cream layer.
• Butterscotch instant pudding mix: The star of our show, these packets bring all the buttery, caramel-kissed flavor that makes BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH unforgettable.
• Milk: Cold milk is essential for the pudding to set up with the perfect, velvety texture.
• Optional garnishes (grated chocolate or crushed Butterfinger candy bars): Toss these on at the end to add crunch, color, and a big wow factor.

How to Make BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by mixing your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar together in a roomy bowl. Use a fork to really combine everything so every crumb gets a buttery hug. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan—you want to pack it down firmly, but not so much that it turns rock hard. This is the foundation for your BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH, so take a minute to get those edges nice and even!

Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer

With an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mixture is super smooth, creamy, and free of lumps. Gently fold in half of the Cool Whip, taking care to keep everything light and airy. Spread this luscious layer right over your crust, making sure to reach every corner—this step is what makes each slice feel like eating a piece of silky cheesecake.

Step 3: Mix and Pour the Butterscotch Layer

In a fresh bowl, whisk together the butterscotch instant pudding mixes with cold milk until completely smooth and starting to thicken. You want it nice and pourable, but not runny. Immediately pour this golden layer over the cream cheese base and use a spatula to spread it out evenly. This is where that signature flavor infuses your BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH with pure nostalgia!

Step 4: Add the Second Cream Layer

With the pudding all set, spread the remaining Cool Whip over the entire pan, creating a snowy, soft finish that seals in all the flavors underneath. The layers might look a little thick—that’s exactly what you want! This topping transforms each serving into a scoop of sweet, fluffy delight.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Pop your assembled pan into the fridge for a few hours (overnight is even better). This chilling time lets the layers firm up and the flavors mingle. Right before serving, sprinkle on a shower of grated chocolate or crushed Butterfinger bars if you want a little extra pizzazz. Your BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH will look irresistible!

How to Serve BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect presentation, I love topping BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH with a sprinkle of grated milk chocolate, toffee bits, or crushed Butterfinger bars. These add both a crunchy contrast and a pop of color, making each slice truly celebration-worthy. A gentle dusting of cocoa powder or extra dollops of whipped cream are delightful, too!

Side Dishes

Since BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH is so decadent and rich, it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a tart, juicy counterpoint. If you’re hosting a party, a fruit salad or a platter of crisp apple slices helps balance the creamy sweetness without overwhelming your guests.

Creative Ways to Present

While you can always serve BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH by the slice straight from the pan, try spooning it into individual mason jars or parfait glasses for the cutest, most Instagrammable servings! Top each with a swirl of whipped cream and a crunchy garnish for a dessert that looks as dreamy as it tastes. Mini trifle bowls or even teacups add an extra-special touch for holidays and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH stores beautifully in the fridge. Just cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftover squares to an airtight container. It will keep its texture and flavor for up to four days—if it lasts that long! The layers may get even tastier as they mingle overnight.

Freezing

You can definitely freeze BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH if you need to make it in advance. Wrap the pan well with both plastic wrap and foil, or cut into bars and freeze individually. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. The texture of the cream layers might become slightly softer, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Reheating

No need to reheat BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH—this dessert is at its very best served cold, straight from the fridge! If it’s been frozen, let it thaw fully in the refrigerator before serving to restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade whipped cream, just make sure to whip it with a little powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Use the same amount as the called-for Cool Whip for that classic fluffy finish.

Can I substitute a different pudding flavor?

Definitely! While butterscotch is what makes BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH so nostalgic and unique, you could swap in chocolate, vanilla, or even banana pudding in a pinch. But for that signature caramel flavor, stick with butterscotch.

What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?

If you’re out of graham crackers, try vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even gingersnaps for a fun twist. Just crush them finely and mix with the same amount of melted butter and sugar.

Can I make BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH in advance?

Yes, and it actually gets better with a little time in the fridge! You can prepare the entire dessert a day ahead and chill until ready to serve. Just add any crunchy toppings right before serving for the best texture.

Do I need to bake the crust?

Nope! That’s the beauty of BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH—the crust sets up beautifully in the fridge thanks to the melted butter and sugar, so there’s no oven required at all.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s easy to make, always impresses, and packs pure old-fashioned goodness, your search ends with BUTTERSCOTCH LUSH. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with every creamy, crunchy, sweet spoonful. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend, and let the lush magic begin!

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