There's something undeniably comforting about a rich, creamy, coconut dessert – and when you don’t even need to turn on the oven, it’s a true winner! This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush is a tropical delight with layers of buttery graham cracker crust, smooth coconut pudding, and fluffy whipped topping that just melts in your mouth. Perfect for warm weather or when you’re craving something light and refreshing, this dessert is easy to whip up and sure to impress.

I first tried a version of this dessert at a family gathering, and it’s been a hit in our home ever since. Let’s dig in and see why you’ll want this recipe in your dessert rotation!

Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert is packed with layers of coconut flavor and texture, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion.

First of all, it’s completely no-bake, meaning you can make this treat without heating up your kitchen – a huge perk during hot weather or busy days.

Plus, it’s so simple to make! With basic ingredients like graham crackers, coconut cream pudding, and whipped topping, this dessert comes together in no time. It’s perfect for when you want a quick yet impressive dessert.

Another reason to love this dessert is its versatile appeal. It’s fancy enough for holidays, potlucks, or special occasions, yet easy enough for any weeknight sweet craving.

Finally, this recipe is easy to customize. Want to add a chocolate drizzle or some toasted coconut on top? Go for it! It’s adaptable, so you can make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient working together to create a dessert that’s light, creamy, and bursting with coconut flavor.

Graham Cracker Crust: This forms the buttery base of the dessert. You can use store-bought graham cracker crumbs for convenience, or crush whole graham crackers at home. Combined with melted butter, the crust adds a bit of crunch to complement the creamy layers.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is whipped into the base layer to give it a slight tang that balances the sweetness. It’s important to bring it to room temperature so it blends smoothly and forms a creamy texture.
Coconut Cream Pudding Mix: This instant pudding mix brings a burst of coconut flavor to the dish. Be sure to use the instant variety for the best texture, and mix it with cold milk for a pudding that sets quickly.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream forms the top layer and adds a light, airy texture. This keeps the dessert from feeling too heavy while providing a nice contrast to the denser cream cheese layer.
Shredded Coconut: Both sweetened and unsweetened shredded coconut work well here. It adds texture and an extra layer of coconut flavor. Toasting the shredded coconut gives it a golden color and a nutty depth, but you can also leave it plain for a softer texture.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe, though a hand mixer or stand mixer will make combining the cream cheese and whipped topping much easier.

How to Make This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert

Creating this lush dessert is as easy as layering a few delicious components. Here’s a step-by-step guide to bring it all together.

Prepare the Crust: Begin by combining the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated and press this mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan to form a firm crust. Place the pan in the fridge to chill while you prepare the other layers.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in a portion of the whipped topping until it’s fully incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust, creating the first layer of the dessert.
Prepare the Coconut Pudding Layer: Whisk together the coconut cream pudding mix with cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Pour this pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Add the Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer. For an extra touch, sprinkle shredded coconut across the top – you can toast it first for a golden crunch or keep it soft and white for a fluffier texture.
Chill and Serve: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the layers set. When ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy the creamy, coconutty goodness in each bite!

Expect this dessert to be devoured quickly – it’s too light and delicious to last long in the fridge!

Storage Options

This dessert is a great make-ahead option, and it stores well when handled properly.

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 4-5 days. The layers will stay creamy and intact, and the crust will maintain its slight crunch.
Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze this dessert if needed. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It will last for about 2 weeks in the freezer, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: No reheating necessary – just pull it out of the fridge or freezer, slice, and serve!

Variations and Substitutions

The No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush is as versatile as it is delicious! Here are a few ways to put your own twist on this classic:

Add a Chocolate Drizzle: For a hint of decadence, drizzle melted chocolate or hot fudge over the top before serving. It adds a nice contrast to the coconut and elevates the flavor.
Switch Up the Pudding Flavor: Not a fan of coconut? Try swapping the coconut cream pudding with vanilla or banana pudding for a twist. You’ll still get a creamy, lush texture with a different flavor profile.
Try a Cookie Crust: Substitute the graham cracker crust with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a sweeter, buttery base.
Make It a Tropical Delight: Add some diced pineapple on top of the cream cheese layer for a tropical coconut-pineapple combination. Just be sure to drain it well so the dessert doesn’t get soggy.
Use Homemade Whipped Cream: For a slightly richer taste, use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. Just whip heavy cream with a touch of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Feel free to get creative – this dessert is forgiving and fun to customize. Whether you go classic or try a new version, you’re in for a treat with each bite!

Enjoy your no-bake coconut cream lush – it’s a guaranteed hit that’s so easy, you’ll be reaching for it time and time again.