Lemon Cream Dessert

Lemon Cream Dessert Recipe - Delicious and Creamy Dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

This Lemon Cream Dessert is a delightful and refreshing treat that is perfect for any occasion. With layers of creamy lemon filling, a crunchy nutty crust, and a fluffy whipped topping, this dessert is sure to impress your guests.

History

The origins of this recipe are unclear, but lemon desserts have been enjoyed for centuries. Lemons have long been prized for their bright and tangy flavor, and this dessert is a perfect showcase for their zesty goodness.

Ingredients

1.5 cups sugar
0.33 cups + 1 tbsp cornstarch
1.5 cups cold water
3 egg yolks, lightly beaten
3 tbsp butter, cubed
2 tsp grated lemon peel
0.5 cup lemon juice

Crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup finely chopped walnuts
0.5 cup cold butter

Topping

1 (8 oz (227 g)) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup confectioner's sugar
2 cups cold milk
2 (3.4 oz (96 g)) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 (16 oz (454 g)) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch; gradually stir in water until smooth.
Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1 minute or until thickened.
Remove from heat.
Stir a small amount of hot filling into egg yolks; return all to the pan, stirring constantly.
Bring to a gentle boil; cook and stir for 1 minute.
Remove from heat; stir in butter and lemon peel.
Gently stir in lemon juice.
Refrigerate until cool.
In a bowl, combine flour and nuts.
Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press onto the bottom of a greased 13"x9"x2" baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15 – 20 minutes or until edges are golden.
Cool on a wire rack.
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and confectioner's sugar until smooth; spread over the crust.
Spread with the cooled lemon mixture.
In another bowl, whisk milk, pudding mixes, and vanilla for 2 minutes or until slightly thickened; let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set.
Fold in half of the whipped topping.
Spread over the lemon layer.
Spread with the remaining topping.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting.

Variations

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix.
Add a layer of fresh berries between the lemon filling and the whipped topping for a fruity twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the lemon filling until it is thickened to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Allow the dessert to chill for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest to the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemon Cream Dessert chilled with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to whisk the pudding mix and milk together until slightly thickened to ensure a creamy texture.

- Folding in the whipped topping gently will help maintain a light and fluffy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have walnuts, you can use almonds or pecans in the crust.

- You can use graham cracker crumbs instead of flour for a different crust texture.

Make Ahead Tips

This dessert can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dessert with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Lemon Cream Dessert pairs well with a cup of hot tea or a glass of sparkling wine for a special treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best served chilled and does not need to be reheated.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 21g per serving

Saturated Fat: 11g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 5g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Calcium.

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Eggs, Nuts

Summary

This Lemon Cream Dessert is a decadent treat that is high in calories and fats, but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Lemon Cream Dessert is a show-stopping treat that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy lemon filling, nutty crust, and fluffy whipped topping, this dessert is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little cottage by the sea. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on tea and chatting about life, she suddenly pulled out a worn-out recipe card from her recipe box.

"Have you ever tried this Lemon Cream Dessert, my dear?" Martha asked with a twinkle in her eye.

I peered over her shoulder to get a closer look at the faded writing on the card. The ingredients listed were simple yet intriguing - lemons, cream, sugar, and a few other pantry staples. As Martha began to explain the steps to me, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation.

"I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother before her," Martha said with a nostalgic smile. "It's been passed down through generations, and it's always been a favorite among our family and friends."

I was captivated by the history behind this seemingly humble dessert. It was more than just a recipe - it was a connection to the past, a link to generations of women who had lovingly prepared and shared this dish with their loved ones.

With Martha's guidance, I set to work on making the Lemon Cream Dessert. The scent of freshly squeezed lemons filled the air as I zested and juiced the fruit, mixing it with cream and sugar to create a luscious, tangy filling. The delicate balance of sweet and sour flavors danced on my taste buds, and I knew that this dessert would soon become a staple in my own kitchen.

As the dessert chilled in the refrigerator, Martha and I sat down to enjoy a slice together. The creamy texture melted in my mouth, leaving behind a refreshing burst of citrus that was both comforting and invigorating. I couldn't help but smile as I savored each bite, knowing that I had discovered a new favorite recipe that would be cherished for years to come.

From that day on, I made the Lemon Cream Dessert whenever I wanted to bring a taste of sunshine into my home. I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that Martha had so graciously bestowed upon me. Each time I made the dessert, I felt a connection to the women who had come before me, who had lovingly prepared this dish with care and devotion.

Years passed, and the Lemon Cream Dessert became a signature dish of mine. It was requested at family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, bringing joy and memories to all who tasted it. I continued to tweak the recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations, but the essence of the dessert remained the same - a perfect blend of nostalgia and comfort.

One day, as I was flipping through my recipe box, I came across the worn-out card that Martha had given me all those years ago. The writing had faded even more, but the words were still clear and familiar. I smiled as I read the instructions once again, feeling a sense of gratitude for the simple yet profound gift that Martha had shared with me.

In that moment, I realized that recipes are more than just instructions on how to cook a meal. They are a connection to our past, a way to honor the traditions and memories of those who have come before us. The Lemon Cream Dessert was not just a dessert - it was a piece of my history, a reminder of the love and care that had been passed down through generations.

And so, as I continue to make the Lemon Cream Dessert for my loved ones, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of tradition. It is a recipe that has brought me joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging, and I will always cherish the memories and stories that it holds.