Dessert

Pistachio Lush Recipe

ByLila Prescott January 3, 2026January 3, 2026

Introduction

Pistachio Lush is a creamy, crunchy dessert that combines a buttery nutty crust with rich cream cheese and fluffy pistachio pudding layers. Perfect for gatherings, this layered treat offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

The image shows a square piece of dessert on a white plate with four distinct layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown nutty crust, above that is a smooth creamy white layer, followed by a pale green layer that looks light and fluffy, and the top layer is a thick white whipped topping sprinkled with toasted almond slices. In the background, there is another white plate with a similar dessert piece and a white mug with fruit designs, all placed on a wooden table. The dessert looks fresh and soft, with the nuts adding a crunchy texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup flour
1/2 cup stick butter, cut up

1 cup chopped walnuts
8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature

1 cup confectioner’s sugar
1 cup whipped topping

2 packages instant pistachio pudding
3 cups milk
2 cups whipped topping

1/2 cup toasted almonds (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the flour and cut-up butter. Use a pastry blender or two knives to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles small peas.

Step 3: Stir the chopped walnuts into the flour and butter mixture.
Step 4: Press the mixture firmly into a 13 x 9-inch baking pan to form an even crust.
Step 5: Bake the crust for 20 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.

Step 6: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, confectioner’s sugar, and 1 cup of whipped topping together until smooth and silky.
Step 7: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust in the pan.
Step 8: Prepare the pistachio pudding by whisking the instant pudding mix into 3 cups of milk. Whisk for 1-2 minutes until the pudding starts to thicken.

Step 9: Spread the thickened pistachio pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Step 10: Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours to set.
Step 11: Before serving, top with the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping and sprinkle with toasted almonds if using.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, substitute the walnuts with pecans or hazelnuts.
Use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping for a fresher taste.
Allow the dessert to chill overnight for the flavors to fully develop.

To toast almonds, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

Storage

Store Pistachio Lush covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until ready to serve, and when reheating is needed, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk or a milk substitute for the pudding?

Yes, you can use low-fat milk or dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk. However, the pudding might be slightly less creamy.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to bake the crust thoroughly and allow it to cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer. This helps keep the crust firm and prevents sogginess.