Lemon Oreo Dessert

If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat that balances the zesty freshness of lemon with the delightful crunch of Oreos, look no further than this Lemon Oreo Dessert! This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines layers of creamy lemon pudding and whipped topping with the beloved flavor of Golden Oreos. It’s a no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy gathering with friends. Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Lemon Oreo Dessert is not only simple to prepare, but it also delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy lemon filling melds perfectly with the crunchy Oreo crust, creating a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds singing. Plus, it’s a no-bake recipe, which means you won’t have to turn on the oven on a hot day! The vibrant lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist that is sure to impress your guests, making it a go-to dessert for any gathering.

Ingredient List

To make this delicious Lemon Oreo Dessert, you will need the following ingredients:

• 36 Golden Oreos, divided
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 13.4 ounce box INSTANT lemon, coconut, cheesecake, or vanilla pudding
• 1 cup nonfat milk
• 12 ounces whipped topping (approximately 1 – 8-ounce container)
• 1 cup lemon curd (jarred or homemade, or you can use lemon pie filling)

Recommended Tools

To make this Lemon Oreo Dessert, you’ll want to have the following tools on hand:

• Food Processor or Ziplock Bag: For crushing the Oreos into fine crumbs.
• Mixing Bowls: To combine the pudding and whipped topping.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For layering and serving your dessert.
• Spatula: For spreading the layers evenly.

Lemon Oreo Dessert, Made Easy

Now let’s get into the fun part—making the Lemon Oreo Dessert! Follow these simple steps for a delightful treat.

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

Begin by crushing 24 of the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a food processor or putting them in a Ziplock bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Once you have a fine crumb, mix in the melted butter until well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Crust

Press the Oreo crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Make sure it’s packed tightly so it holds together. Place the dish in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Pudding Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and nonfat milk until well combined. Let it sit for a couple of minutes until it thickens.

Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Gently fold in the whipped topping into the pudding mixture until smooth and creamy. This will give your dessert a light and airy texture.

Step 5: Layer the Dessert

Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator. Spread half of the lemon pudding mixture over the Oreo crust. Then, layer half of the lemon curd over the pudding. Repeat the layers with the remaining pudding mixture and lemon curd, finishing with a layer of the pudding on top.

Step 6: Garnish and Chill

For an added touch, crumble the remaining 12 Golden Oreos and sprinkle them on top of the final layer of pudding. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.

Swap Guide

If you’re looking to customize your Lemon Oreo Dessert, here are some great swaps:

• Oreo Varieties: Use regular Oreos or any flavored Oreo you prefer for a twist.
• Pudding Flavor: Substitute lemon pudding with coconut or vanilla for a different flavor profile.
• Whipped Topping: You can use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.
• Lemon Curd: If you can’t find lemon curd, lemon pie filling works well in its place.

Notes on Ingredients

The ingredients in this Lemon Oreo Dessert are simple, yet they come together to create a deliciously complex flavor. Here are a few notes:

• Golden Oreos: These provide the perfect sweet and buttery flavor that complements the lemon.
• Instant Pudding: Using instant pudding is key for that quick and creamy texture.
• Whipped Topping: This adds a lightness to the dessert, but feel free to use a dairy-free alternative if necessary.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Lemon Oreo Dessert can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld, making it even more delicious!

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my pudding doesn’t thicken?

If your pudding doesn’t thicken, make sure you are using instant pudding and that you whisk it for the full two minutes as directed on the package. If it still seems too runny, refrigerate it for a bit longer before layering.

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s recommended to make this dessert a day in advance to allow the flavors to develop and the dessert to set properly.

How can I make this dessert gluten-free?

To make this Lemon Oreo Dessert gluten-free, simply use gluten-free Oreos and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the pudding mix and whipped topping, are gluten-free as well.

What can I do if I can’t find lemon curd?

If you can’t find lemon curd, you can easily substitute it with lemon pie filling or even make your own lemon curd at home with eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and butter!

Bring It Home

Now that you have all the tips and steps to create your own Lemon Oreo Dessert, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work! This dessert not only looks stunning but is also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it at home, it’s sure to be a hit. The refreshing lemon flavor paired with the rich Golden Oreos creates an indulgent treat that everyone will love. Don’t forget to snap a picture before it disappears, and share your delicious creation with friends and family. Enjoy every creamy, zesty bite of your homemade Lemon Oreo Dessert!