Dessert

Butterscotch Lush Recipe

ByLily Cross January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

Introduction

Butterscotch Lush is a luscious layered dessert that combines a crunchy graham cracker crust with creamy cheesecake, smooth butterscotch pudding, and fluffy whipped topping. This no-bake treat is perfect for gatherings or when you crave something sweet and easy to make.

A rectangular dessert bar is shown with four distinct layers on a white plate set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a crumbly, light tan crust. Above it is a thick, creamy white layer, followed by a smooth, glossy caramel-colored layer. The top layer is fluffy white whipped cream sprinkled with scattered orange butterscotch chips and small pieces of chocolate peanut butter cups. Parts of the dessert are cut into squares, with crumbs scattered around the plate edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
10 tablespoons butter (melted)
8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
3/4 cup powdered sugar
8 ounces Cool Whip (thawed), divided
2 boxes (3.4 oz each) instant butterscotch pudding mix
3 cups half and half (whole milk works also)
Optional toppings: butterscotch morsels, chopped pecans, chopped Heath candy bars, butterscotch sauce drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, light brown sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Place the pan in the freezer for 20 minutes to set.
Step 3: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 8 ounces of thawed Cool Whip using a spatula until well combined.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant butterscotch pudding mix and half and half for 1–2 minutes until it begins to thicken. Let it rest about 3 minutes to firm up more.
Step 5: Remove the crust from the freezer. Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the crust, reaching the edges. Then, spread the butterscotch pudding layer over the cheesecake. Finally, spread the remaining Cool Whip on top as the last layer.
Step 6: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the layers set and flavors meld.
Step 7: Before serving, garnish with optional butterscotch chips, chopped Heath bars, chopped pecans, or a drizzle of butterscotch sauce. Cut into squares and enjoy chilled.

Tips & Variations

For a richer pudding layer, use whole milk instead of half and half if you prefer a lighter texture.
Substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the butterscotch flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts into the crust for extra crunch.

Storage

Store Butterscotch Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. If leftovers remain, you can re-chill before serving again, but avoid freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

A square-shaped dessert bar cut into squares on a white plate, featuring four distinct layers: a thick golden crumbly crust at the bottom, a smooth white creamy layer above it, followed by a thick light brown caramel-like middle layer, and topped with a thick white whipped cream layer decorated with scattered orange butterscotch chips and broken pieces of chocolate-covered peanut butter candy. Crumbs are scattered around the edges on the plate, and the surface beneath is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Butterscotch Lush ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert actually benefits from resting in the fridge overnight, allowing the layers to set and flavors to blend perfectly.

What can I use if I don’t have Cool Whip?

You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream or any whipped topping of your choice for a similar creamy texture.

Lily Cross