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A vibrant green slice of Easy Pistachio Lush dessert with whipped topping and crushed pistachios on a white plate.

Easy Pistachio Lush: The Ultimate No-Bake Dessert with a Twist

Experience the magic of this Easy Pistachio Lush, a no-bake dessert offering vibrant green layers, creamy texture, and nostalgic comfort. This recipe elevates the classic with intensified pistachio flavor and a stable homemade whipped cream, ensuring a superior treat every time. Perfect for any gathering or a quiet evening.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 15 servings
Course: Dessert
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup butter melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 (16-ounce) container Cool Whip divided (or homemade stabilized whipped cream)
  • 2 small boxes Pistachio instant pudding mix (approx. 3.4 oz or 96g each)
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • chopped pistachios optional, some can be finely ground for the pudding layer

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • 9x13 inch pan
  • electric mixer
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife
  • plastic wrap
  • Airtight container

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir everything together until the mixture is moist and resembles wet sand.
  2. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch pan. Refrigerate the crust for at least 1 hour to ensure a firm, stable base.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer
  1. In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature cream cheese until it is wonderfully creamy and smooth. Add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until completely smooth and fluffy.
  2. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of the Cool Whip until just combined. Carefully spread this creamy layer evenly over your chilled graham cracker crust.
Step 3: Create the Pistachio Pudding Layer
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the Pistachio instant pudding mix and the whole milk. Whisk vigorously until the mixture starts thickening, which usually takes about 2 minutes.
  2. Gently fold in your finely ground roasted pistachios (if using this unique twist) into this pudding layer. Carefully spread this vibrant green pistachio pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Top and Chill
  1. Spread the remaining Cool Whip (or your homemade stabilized whipped cream) smoothly over the pistachio pudding layer. If desired, generously sprinkle additional chopped pistachios on top for garnish.
  2. Refrigerate the entire dessert for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling period is crucial for all the layers to set properly, ensuring clean, defined slices and a firm, refreshing sweet treat.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 7gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 230mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 2gSugar: 45gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a lump-free layer and always use instant pudding mix, not cook-and-serve. Chilling between layers for 15-30 minutes can create cleaner lines. This lush stores well in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. For neat slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.

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