Why You’ll Love Heavenly Lemon Oreo Dessert Recipe
This dessert is a dream for lemon lovers and a lifesaver when you’re short on time. No oven required, just a few simple steps to assemble this layered treat. It’s cool, creamy, refreshing, and perfect for potlucks, picnics, and family dinners. The combination of sweet Golden Oreos and zesty lemon makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 package (14.3 oz) Golden Oreo cookies
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1/2 cup salted butter, melted
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2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding mix
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3 1/4 cups milk
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2 containers (8 oz each) Cool Whip, thawed
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1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
Directions
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Crush the Golden Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
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Mix the cookie crumbs with the melted butter until well combined.
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Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form the crust.
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In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in one container of Cool Whip until combined.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the Oreo crust.
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In another bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and milk until thickened.
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Spread the lemon pudding over the cream cheese layer.
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Top with the remaining container of Cool Whip.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
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Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
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Lemon Lovers’ Version: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese layer for extra citrus flavor.
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Berry Twist: Top with fresh blueberries or raspberries before serving.
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Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese, sugar-free pudding, and light Cool Whip for a lower-calorie option.
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Crust Swap: Try using graham crackers or shortbread cookies instead of Golden Oreos.
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Lime Version: Substitute lemon pudding with lime pudding for a tropical twist.
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Individual Servings: Assemble in individual cups for easy party portions.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Since this is a chilled, no-bake dessert, reheating is not necessary. It’s best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge.
FAQs
How far in advance can I make this dessert?
You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors meld beautifully when it’s chilled overnight.
Can I freeze Lemon Oreo Dessert?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream, but it may not be as stable for long-term storage.
Can I make it with regular Oreos?
Yes, but the flavor will be different. Golden Oreos are recommended for the best lemon pairing.
Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of pudding mix?
Not for this recipe. The pudding mix is essential for texture and structure.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
No, Golden Oreos contain gluten. Use gluten-free sandwich cookies as a substitute for a gluten-free version.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can use less powdered sugar or a sugar substitute in the cream cheese layer.
Can I use lemon curd instead of pudding?
You can, but it will result in a richer, more tart flavor and a slightly different texture.
How do I crush the Oreos without a food processor?
Place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin until finely ground.
Can I make this in a smaller pan?
Yes, but the layers will be thicker. Adjust ingredient quantities accordingly if needed.
Conclusion
This Heavenly Lemon Oreo Dessert is a quick and easy no-bake recipe that delivers a refreshing burst of lemon in every bite. With its creamy layers and crunchy cookie base, it’s the perfect sweet ending to any meal. Ideal for entertaining or simply satisfying a citrus craving, this dessert is sure to become a household favorite.
Heavenly Lemon Oreo Dessert
A refreshing no-bake dessert featuring a buttery Golden Oreo crust, layers of creamy lemon pudding, sweetened cream cheese, and fluffy Cool Whip.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 package (14.3 oz) Golden Oreo cookies
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding mix
- 3 1/4 cups milk
- 2 containers (8 oz each) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Crush the Golden Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
- Mix the crushed Oreos with melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form the crust. Place in the fridge to chill while preparing the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in one container of Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture until well blended.
- Spread the cream cheese layer evenly over the chilled Oreo crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
- Spread the lemon pudding over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with the second container of Cool Whip, spreading it evenly.
- Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Crush the Oreos finely for a more compact crust.
- You can garnish the top with crushed Oreos or lemon zest for extra flavor and presentation.
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
