Get ready to brighten your dessert table with this Orange Lush Dessert, a no-bake showstopper that layers graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese, light-as-air whipped topping, and a burst of sunshine thanks to sweet orange pudding and juicy mandarin slices. Each bite is a cheerful swirl of creamy, citrusy flavors and textures, making this easy treat feel like an edible celebration of summer. Simple to assemble and even more delightful after chilling, it’s the perfect centerpiece for potlucks, family gatherings, or any night you feel like sharing a taste of happiness.

Orange Lush Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Orange Lush Dessert are wonderfully straightforward, but each one is essential to crafting those luscious, layered textures and fresh flavors. Here’s what you’ll need and a few little tips for extra magic in every bite:

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the sweet, sturdy base and add a nostalgic flavor to the crust.
Granulated sugar: Helps bind the crust and gives it that perfect touch of sweetness.
Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crumbs together and creates that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth richness.
Cream cheese (softened): The creamy middle layer that balances sweetness with subtle tang.
Powdered sugar: Dissolves easily into the cream cheese for a pillowy, smooth texture.
Whipped topping (thawed and divided): Makes the dessert light, fluffy, and utterly dreamy.
Orange-flavored instant pudding mix: Packs a punch of citrus flavor and brings that signature sunshiny hue.
Cold milk: Activates and thickens the pudding layer for that classic lush consistency.
Mandarin oranges (drained): Offer bursts of juicy freshness and a gorgeous, jewel-like garnish.
Additional whipped topping and orange zest (for garnish): Adds an inviting finish and amplifies the citrusy aroma.

How to Make Orange Lush Dessert

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Use a fork to mix until the crumbs are fully moistened and resemble wet sand. Scoop the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and press it down firmly, making sure the crust is evenly packed for a sturdy base—using the bottom of a glass works wonders here.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and luscious with no lumps in sight. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping. This step is where things get extra luscious! Spread this fluffy layer evenly over your crust, taking care not to disturb the base.

Step 3: Whip Up the Orange Pudding

Next, add both packages of orange-flavored pudding mix and cold milk to a bowl. Whisk thoroughly for about two minutes, until the pudding thickens and takes on that vibrant, cheerful color. Pour this layer over your cream cheese mixture and smooth it out with a spatula. This is where the classic Orange Lush Dessert flavor really starts to shine!

Step 4: Top with Whipped Topping

Dollop the remaining whipped topping over your pudding layer and gently spread it out into a cloud-like finish. Smooth and swirl as desired, setting the stage for bright garnishes.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Take your well-drained mandarin oranges and arrange them artfully on top. Sprinkle with freshly grated orange zest for a fragrant touch. Now, the hardest part—cover and chill your Orange Lush Dessert for at least 4 hours, letting those lovely layers set and mingle.

How to Serve Orange Lush Dessert

Garnishes

A flourish of whipped topping, a scattering of mandarin oranges, and a light dusting of orange zest make this dessert not only photogenic but also intensely inviting. These garnishes add a hint of contrasting texture and a wonderful pop of color, enticing everyone to dig right in.

Side Dishes

Because this dessert is rich, creamy, and citrus-forward, keep your side dishes light and crisp. Offer a fresh fruit salad or mint-sprinkled berries for contrast. A cup of hot tea or a sparkling citrus mocktail pairs beautifully, cutting through the sweetness while enhancing the orange notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Orange Lush Dessert looks stunning in individual parfait glasses for single servings—just layer as you would in the pan! For parties, cut into elegant squares and serve on decorative plates with a sprig of mint. Or, make mini versions in mason jars for a fun, portable picnic treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Orange Lush Dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, although the crust will soften slightly—a bonus if you love that creamy, spoonable texture.

Freezing

While it’s possible to freeze this dessert, the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change once thawed. If you do freeze it, slice into portions first, wrap individually, and let the servings thaw slowly in the fridge for best results. The garnishes are best added fresh after thawing.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Orange Lush Dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold and creamy straight from the refrigerator. If it’s been out a while and softened, a quick chill in the fridge will restore its structure.

FAQs

Can I use a different pudding flavor instead of orange?

Absolutely! While the classic Orange Lush Dessert is all about that sunny orange flavor, feel free to experiment with lemon, vanilla, or even cheesecake pudding for a unique twist.

What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?

Crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies make delightful alternatives. Each brings its own subtle flavor, and they work beautifully as the crust for this easy layered dessert.

Can I make Orange Lush Dessert ahead of time?

Yes—this is the ultimate make-ahead dessert! Prepare it a day in advance, cover, and chill in the refrigerator. The flavors only get better as they meld together overnight.

Is there a way to make this dessert lighter?

You sure can! Use light cream cheese, swap in a sugar-free pudding mix, and go with a light whipped topping. The end result will remain luscious, but with less guilt.

How do I get clean layers when slicing?

The key is to make sure your Orange Lush Dessert is thoroughly chilled. Use a sharp knife, and for perfect slices, wipe the blade clean between cuts. A small offset spatula makes lifting squares out of the pan much easier, too!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that promises pure joy in every bite, let this Orange Lush Dessert be your new favorite. It’s seriously simple, spectacularly creamy, and bursting with citrus sparkle. I hope you’ll give it a try and, like me, find it becomes a family tradition you’ll crave all year long.

Orange Lush Dessert Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful layers of creamy goodness with a burst of orange flavor in this easy-to-make Orange Lush Dessert. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake treat is sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cream Cheese Layer:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed and divided

Orange Pudding Layer:

2 packages (3.4 ounces each) orange-flavored instant pudding mix
2 cups cold milk

Toppings:

1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
Additional whipped topping and orange zest for garnish

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Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping and spread over the crust.
Orange Pudding Layer: Whisk together pudding mixes and cold milk until thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer.
Assembly: Top with remaining whipped topping, smooth with a spatula, and garnish with mandarin oranges and orange zest. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.