Christmas Lush is the epitome of festive desserts, combining layers of creamy goodness and vibrant fruit flavors that evoke joy and warmth during the holiday season.
This dessert is a visual feast, with a luscious green and red hue reminiscent of traditional holiday colors. Each bite delivers a delightful blend of textures ranging from a crunchy crust to smooth cream cheese layers and fresh strawberries.
The sweet and tangy taste of lime and strawberry gelatin brings a refreshing lift, making this dessert a delightful ending to any holiday meal.
Why should you try this recipe? It’s not just about the festive look; it’s incredibly easy to prepare in just a few simple steps. Family gatherings and parties will be all the merrier with Christmas Lush on the table. This dish encourages everyone to indulge in a bit of holiday cheer, making it a must-have in your festive repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Christmas Lush boasts several appealing qualities that will win over any dessert lover. Firstly, it’s an easy prep dessert with simple layers that anyone can manage, making it ideal for novice cooks. Each layer builds on the last, creating a beautiful and tasty treat that is sure to impress.
Plus, this recipe is family-friendly! Kids love the sweet fruity flavors, and it can easily become a fun activity to make together. The minimal ingredients ensure that you can whip it up without much hassle, making it a staple for the busy holiday season. Whether it’s a potluck, Christmas dinner, or a simple family gathering, Christmas Lush is the dessert that satisfies.
Ingredients for Christmas Lush
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of our delectable crust.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
- ¼ cup nuts (pecans or walnuts, chopped finely): Adds a delightful crunch and flavor to the base.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and helps bind the crust ingredients.
- 1 cup boiling water: This ensures that our gelatin is dissolved perfectly.
- 1 small box (3 oz) lime gelatin: Offers that zesty flavor profile.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: For the creamy filling that binds all flavors together.
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed: Provides a light and airy texture.
- Green food coloring (optional): For that festive touch if desired.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetness for the cream cheese layer.
- 2 (3 oz each) small boxes strawberry gelatin: Adds a burst of sweetness and color.
- 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries: The star of the dish, providing freshness and a juicy bite.
- Additional whipped topping: To pile on top for added fluffiness.
- Sprinkles or candy: For a festive and colorful garnish.
Step-by-Step Directions for Christmas Lush
Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and ¼ cup chopped nuts.
- Stir in the softened butter until the mixture is crumbly and resembles wet sand.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes and then set aside to cool completely.
First Layer
- In a bowl, dissolve 1 small box of lime gelatin into 1 cup of boiling water.
- Once dissolved, allow it to cool slightly before mixing in 1 package of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 (8 oz) container of whipped topping.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour this mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until set.
Second Layer
- In another bowl, dissolve the two boxes of strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water.
- Stir until fully dissolved and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Gently fold in the 4 cups of sliced strawberries.
- Once the mixture is cool, pour it over the first layer and refrigerate until set (about 1-2 hours).
Top Layer
- After the strawberry layer has set, top with additional whipped topping for a fluffy finish.
- You can add sprinkles or candy on top for a festive pop of color. Serve chilled.
Tips & Tricks
For a better baking experience, remember to use softened butter to ensure the crust forms well. If you want to enhance the flavors, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the cream cheese layer. For a more vibrant green, a drop or two of green food coloring in the cream cheese mixture gives a festive touch. For a unique twist, try sprinkling crushed graham crackers on top instead of or in addition to the whipped topping for more texture.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
To elevate your Christmas Lush presentation, serve it directly from the dish, garnished with fresh mint leaves or additional sliced strawberries on the side. It pairs beautifully with warm beverages such as spiced cider or hot chocolate. Consider a side of gingerbread cookies to complement the festive mood, or a light scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance out the tartness of the fruit layers.
Nutritional Information
Indulging in a slice of Christmas Lush allows for a guilty pleasure, given its layered flavors and creamy textures. Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, along with a good source of vitamins from the fresh strawberries. Nutritional values can vary depending on portion size, so keep that in mind while enjoying this dessert. It’s the kind of treat that’s ideal for indulgence, especially during the holiday season when we gather with loved ones.
Storing Tips & Variations for Christmas Lush
If there are any leftovers (which is unusual given its popularity), you can store Christmas Lush in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in an airtight container – it lasts up to a month! You can also swap out the strawberry gelatin for other flavors like raspberry or cherry for a different taste. For a healthier option, use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of the cream cheese, and opt for fresh berries.
Conclusion for Christmas Lush
Christmas Lush is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that perfectly capture the essence of the holiday spirit. With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, it’s a dish you’ll want to enjoy year after year. Go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones with this delicious holiday tradition — try this recipe today and watch as smiles light up around the table.
FAQs
1. Can I make Christmas Lush ahead of time?
Yes! Christmas Lush can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to cover it tightly in the refrigerator.
2. How long does Christmas Lush last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, although it’s best enjoyed fresh.
3. Can I use sugar-free gelatin?
Absolutely! Sugar-free gelatin can be substituted to reduce sugar content while maintaining flavor.
4. What other fruits can I use in this recipe?
You can easily incorporate other berries like blueberries or blackberries, or even diced peaches for a unique twist.
5. Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
For a vegan version, substitute vegan cream cheese and a plant-based whipped topping. Make sure the gelatin used is plant-based (like agar agar) to make it completely vegan-friendly.
Print
Christmas Lush
- Total Time: 120
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive layered dessert featuring creamy layers and vibrant fruit flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ cup nuts (pecans or walnuts, chopped finely)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 small box (3 oz) lime gelatin
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
- Green food coloring (optional)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 (3 oz each) small boxes strawberry gelatin
- 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- Additional whipped topping
- Sprinkles or candy for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and nuts.
- Stir in softened butter until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes and cool completely.
- Dissolve lime gelatin in boiling water, cool slightly, then mix with cream cheese and sugar.
- Spread the mixture over the cooled crust and refrigerate until set (at least 30 minutes).
- Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water, cool, and fold in sliced strawberries.
- Pour over the first layer and refrigerate until set (about 1-2 hours).
- Top with additional whipped topping, sprinkles or candy, and serve chilled.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the cream cheese layer.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
