Butterscotch Lush is a creamy, dreamy dessert made with layers of butterscotch pudding, whipped cream, and crunchy crust. It’s sweet and oh-so-delicious, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Every bite feels like a little hug from a dessert fairy! I love serving it chilled, and trust me, it’ll disappear faster than you can say “yum!” 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These give the dessert a sweet, crunchy crust. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free cookies or almond flour mixed with a little brown sugar.
Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness. You could also use coconut oil or a plant-based butter if you want a non-dairy option.
Butterscotch Pudding Mix: This is the star of the show! If you don’t have butterscotch, vanilla pudding mix works too, though it will change the flavor a bit. Homemade pudding could also be a great substitute if you have the time.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the lush its creamy texture. For a lighter option, you can use whipping cream or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, though texture may vary.
Toffee Bits: I love the crunchy toffee pieces on top! If you can’t find them, crushed cookies or candy bars like Heath will work beautifully too.
How Do I Achieve Stiff Peaks with Whipping Cream?
Getting the perfect whipped cream is essential for this recipe. Stiff peaks mean the cream holds its shape well. To achieve this, there are a few steps to follow:
- Start with cold heavy whipping cream; chilled cream whips better.
- Use a clean bowl and beaters. This will ensure no grease interferes with whipping.
- Beat on medium-high speed until bubbles form, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Continue beating until you see stiff peaks, which means the cream stands up straight when you lift the beater out.
Watch closely, as over-beating can turn cream into butter! If it starts to look grainy, stop right away.
How to Make Butterscotch Lush
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup sugar
For the Butterscotch Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) butterscotch instant pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
For the Whipped Cream Layer:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup toffee bits (or crushed toffee candy)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Butterscotch Lush takes about 20 minutes of prep time and requires at least 4 hours to chill in the fridge (or overnight if you prefer). You’ll spend a few minutes preparing the crust, mixing the layers, and then just let it set in the fridge. It’s a simple, but oh-so-delicious dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix them together until everything is evenly combined. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a solid crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Butterscotch Layer:
In another bowl, whisk together the butterscotch pudding mix and the milk. Stir for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens nicely. Set this aside for a moment while you prepare the whipped cream layer.
3. Prepare the Whipped Cream Layer:
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. This means it should hold its shape when you lift the whisk out of the bowl.
4. Assemble the Layers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take half of the whipped cream and spread it evenly over your cooled crust. Then, pour the butterscotch pudding mixture over this whipped cream layer, making sure it’s spread out evenly. Finally, add the rest of the whipped cream on top, smoothing it out so it looks nice and even.
5. Add the Topping and Chill:
Sprinkle the toffee bits generously over the top for a delicious crunch. Now, cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours—over night is even better! This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s set, take your Butterscotch Lush out of the fridge. Cut it into squares and enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends!
Can I Substitute the Graham Crackers?
Absolutely! If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers as a substitute. Just make sure the texture is similar, and adjust the sugar slightly if you’re using a sweeter cookie.
How to Make It Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or an alternative such as almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies. Just ensure that the pudding mix is also gluten-free; many brands are, but it’s always good to check the label!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Pudding?
Yes! While butterscotch is delicious, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or even caramel pudding for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the pudding flavor will significantly affect the overall taste of the dessert.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may soften over time, but the flavors will still be fantastic. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh!
