Layered Lemon Lush (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the shortbread crust

01 - 1 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
02 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
03 - 2 cups plain flour

→ For the smooth cream cheese layer

04 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened (2 standard packages)
05 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sift and measure
06 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

→ For the lemony pudding layer

07 - 2 packages of lemon-flavored instant pudding (each 3.4 ounces)
08 - 3 cups cold milk

→ For the fluffy whipped topping

09 - 1½ cups heavy cream, chilled
10 - ½ cup sifted powdered sugar

# Instructions:

01 - Get that oven nice and hot—set it to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, gather everything you'll need, like your ingredients and tools.
02 - Use a food processor to mix your flour and softened butter until it's crumbly. Toss in the chopped pecans, and pulse a few more times to finish. No processor? No worries—use a pastry cutter or even two forks to get everything blended.
03 - Evenly press the pecan shortbread dough into the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges look lightly golden. Let it rest while you work on the other parts.
04 - Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice using a mixer. Beat until there are no lumps and it’s smooth. After the crust cools, spread this over it in an even blanket.
05 - Whisk together instant lemon pudding mix and cold milk for about 3-5 minutes, until it thickens. If it’s not firm enough, pop it in the fridge briefly. Spread this over the creamy layer once set.
06 - Whip your cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until it turns soft and airy. Smooth it gently over the lemon topping.
07 - Let the assembled dessert chill in the fridge long enough for every layer to firm up. Slice and enjoy when ready.

# Notes:

01 - Tip: Make each part ahead while your crust bakes and keep them cool in the fridge. Assembly will feel so much quicker!