A dreamy layered dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, rich coconut filling, and fluffy whipped topping. Light, refreshing, and perfect for summer or special occasions!
🥘 Recipe Card
Servings & Timing
- Yield: 9 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 4+ hours
- Total Time: ~4 hours 30 minutes
Dietary Badges:
- Family-Friendly
- Make-Ahead Dessert
- Tropical-Inspired
✅ Ingredients (Quick View)
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed (divided)
For the Coconut Layer:
- 1 (14 oz) can coconut cream
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- Remaining half of whipped topping
Optional Garnish:
- Extra shredded coconut (toasted or plain)
📖 Instructions (Quick View)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Make crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs & melted butter. Press firmly into dish. Bake 10 minutes, then cool completely.
- Cream cheese layer: Beat softened cream cheese & powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in half the whipped topping. Spread evenly over cooled crust.
- Coconut layer: Mix coconut cream, shredded coconut, and vanilla. Spread over cream cheese layer.
- Whipped topping: Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold in remaining whipped topping. Spread over coconut layer.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or overnight) until set.
- Garnish with shredded or toasted coconut before serving.
🔑 Notes
- Chill time is key — it lets layers firm up and flavors meld.
- Toast the coconut garnish for extra flavor and crunch.
- Swap graham crackers for a chocolate cookie crust for a richer flavor.
🌟 Introduction
If you’re craving a light, creamy, and tropical dessert, this Coconut Cream Lush is the answer. With its buttery crust, cheesecake-like base, coconut-rich filling, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a layered dream that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Perfect for summer gatherings, Easter, or anytime you want a no-fuss make-ahead dessert, this lush tastes like a tropical vacation in every bite.
🥄 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Bake the crust
Press crumb mixture into dish, bake until lightly golden, then let cool.
2. Make cream cheese layer
Smooth cream cheese with powdered sugar, fold in whipped topping, spread evenly.
3. Create coconut layer
Mix coconut cream, shredded coconut, and vanilla, then spread over cream layer.
4. Prepare topping
Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff, fold in whipped topping, and spread over dessert.
5. Chill & garnish
Refrigerate until fully set, then top with coconut flakes before slicing.
🥬 Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Crust: Graham crackers are classic, but chocolate cookies or shortbread crumbs also work.
- Coconut Cream: Be sure to use unsweetened canned coconut cream (not coconut milk).
- Whipped Topping: For a lighter option, use all homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip.
- Add-Ins: Stir in crushed pineapple to coconut layer for a piña colada twist.
🍽 Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks to the coconut layer.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap in a chocolate cookie crust.
- Nutty Finish: Sprinkle toasted almonds or macadamia nuts on top.
- Individual Servings: Layer in parfait cups or mason jars for a party-friendly presentation.
❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (cream layers may separate).
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the day before serving for best texture.
⚖️ Nutrition (per serving, est. 9 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 24g
- Net Carbs: 25g
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this keto-friendly?
A: Yes — swap graham crackers for almond flour crust, use sugar-free sweeteners, and unsweetened coconut.
Q: Can I use coconut milk instead of coconut cream?
A: Coconut cream is thicker and richer; milk may make the filling too runny.
Q: Can this be made dairy-free?
A: Yes — use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream.
💌 Final Notes
This Coconut Cream Lush is creamy, dreamy, and irresistibly tropical. With simple ingredients and make-ahead convenience, it’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
