Description
Coconut Cream Lush is a creamy, dreamy dessert that layers buttery graham cracker crust, smooth coconut filling, fluffy cheesecake, and a whipped topping with toasted coconut. Perfect for coconut lovers, this chilled treat is sweet, indulgent, and even better the next day! Great for family gatherings, parties, or as a special treat for yourself. 🥥
Ingredients
Scale
Coconut Cream Filling
- 2 cans (14 oz each) coconut cream (discard the thin coconut milk layer)
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 whole eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ tablespoon toasted coconut extract
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 12 tablespoons melted butter
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons toasted coconut extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
Topping
- 1 cup toasted sweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Cream Filling:
- In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks, whole eggs, and sugar until smooth.
- In a medium pot over low heat, gently melt the coconut cream (discard any thin coconut milk layer).
- Slowly add the egg and sugar mixture, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Add the toasted coconut extract.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water, then add to the pot. Stir for 8-10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat, fold in the coconut flakes, and transfer to an airtight container to cool completely.
- Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, mixing until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and toasted coconut extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
- Add the Coconut Cream Layer:
- Once cooled, spread the prepared coconut cream filling over the cheesecake layer.
- Top with Whipped Topping:
- Spread whipped topping over the coconut cream layer, then sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Chill Time: For best results, chill for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld and the layers firm up.
- Cornstarch Tip: Make sure the cornstarch is completely dissolved in water before adding, to avoid lumps.
- Alternative Extracts: If toasted coconut extract is unavailable, substitute regular coconut extract or a touch of vanilla extract.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for thickening the filling)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Layered, Chilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg