There’s something so refreshing and delightful about a no-bake dessert, and this Coconut Cream Lush Dessert is no exception! Layers of creamy coconut goodness, buttery graham cracker crust, and light whipped topping come together in perfect harmony, creating a treat that’s both rich and airy. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a mini tropical escape, right from your kitchen.

I discovered this recipe when searching for something quick yet decadent for a family gathering. Its light, layered texture won over everyone and soon became one of our go-to desserts for any occasion. Let me walk you through why you’ll love this recipe as much as we do!
Why You'll Love This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert
Get ready to be swept away by the flavors and ease of this Coconut Cream Lush Dessert. With its coconutty flavor, creamy layers, and no-bake simplicity, it's bound to become a favorite.
First, it’s incredibly easy to make – no oven needed! This dessert comes together with just a few simple steps and sets beautifully in the refrigerator. Perfect for hot days or when you need a fuss-free treat!
This dessert is also bursting with tropical flavor. The combination of coconut pudding, creamy layers, and a hint of graham cracker sweetness makes it feel like a taste of the tropics, bringing a bit of sunshine to any day.
Plus, it’s wonderfully versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck, holiday dinner, or just because, this recipe can be made a day in advance and looks stunning as a layered treat. You can even customize the toppings to add a unique touch.
Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. With its delicate layers and irresistible flavors, it’s the type of dessert that everyone from kids to adults will love. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients you’ll need to make this no-bake wonder!
Ingredients Notes

One of the best things about this Coconut Cream Lush Dessert is how accessible the ingredients are. Each component adds a unique texture or flavor that makes this dessert unforgettable.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: This forms the base of our dessert, giving it a sweet, crumbly crust. I like to use pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs, but you can easily crush whole crackers yourself. Mix with melted butter to help it hold its shape.
- Butter: Use melted butter to bind the graham cracker crumbs. Salted or unsalted butter works here, but salted adds a slight contrast to the sweetness.
- Cream Cheese: This adds a tangy, creamy layer that balances the sweetness. Make sure it’s softened before mixing to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Coconut Pudding Mix: The star of this dessert! Coconut pudding mix brings that rich, tropical flavor. If you’re unable to find coconut flavor, vanilla pudding with a bit of coconut extract can work as a substitute.
- Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, whipped topping finishes off the dessert and adds a refreshing, airy texture. You can use homemade whipped cream if you prefer, but store-bought is perfectly fine and convenient for this no-bake recipe.
- Shredded Coconut: For a finishing touch, sprinkle some shredded coconut over the top layer. Toasted coconut adds a bit of extra flavor and texture if you’d like a more intense coconut taste.
No special equipment is needed here, just a mixing bowl, spatula, and a baking dish. Now let’s get started on putting together those perfect layers!
How To Make This No-Bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert

Creating this layered Coconut Cream Lush Dessert is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to putting it all together.
- Make the Crust: Start by combining your graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a bowl. Mix until well combined, and then press it evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Make sure it’s packed firmly so it holds its shape. Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the next layer.
- Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then fold in half of the whipped topping to lighten it up. Spread this mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust, creating a creamy, tangy layer. This layer adds a nice richness to the dessert.
- Prepare the Coconut Pudding: Prepare the coconut pudding mix according to the package instructions, using cold milk to keep the pudding nice and thick. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken, then spread it evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer, smoothing it out to create a beautiful final layer. If you’re feeling fancy, add a swirl pattern on top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Add Shredded Coconut: Finally, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded coconut on top for both flavor and texture. Toasted coconut is a lovely option here if you prefer a richer, nuttier flavor.
Once assembled, cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This gives the layers time to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Storage Options
This no-bake dessert stores beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option.
- Refrigerator: Store the Coconut Cream Lush Dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The crust may soften over time, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.
- Freezer: You can freeze this dessert if you need to make it further in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- Serving Tip: This dessert is best served chilled straight from the fridge, as the layers hold up well when cool and taste the most refreshing.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can adjust flavors and textures to fit your personal tastes or dietary needs.
- Use a Vanilla Pudding Base: If you can’t find coconut pudding, vanilla pudding with a touch of coconut extract works well for a similar tropical flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or a gluten-free cookie crust as an easy swap to make this dessert gluten-free.
- Add Pineapple: For even more tropical flavor, add a layer of crushed pineapple on top of the cream cheese layer. Just be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
- Whipped Cream Instead of Whipped Topping: If you prefer a homemade touch, replace store-bought whipped topping with freshly whipped cream. Beat heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form, then use as directed.
- Toasted Coconut: For extra flavor, try toasting the shredded coconut topping. Simply spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Experimenting with this lush dessert is part of the fun, and you may just find your new favorite version. Give this Coconut Cream Lush Dessert a try, and watch it disappear in no time!
PrintNo-bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert Recipe
This no-bake Coconut Cream Lush Dessert layers creamy coconut pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Ideal for warm days, it’s an easy-to-make treat that captures tropical flavors in each bite. Serve this lush dessert at family gatherings or special occasions for a guaranteed hit!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups coconut cream pudding mix, prepared
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 cups whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
- Optional: toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan and chill to set.
- Cream Layer: In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over the chilled crust.
- Pudding Layer: Prepare coconut cream pudding according to package instructions. Spread over the cream layer.
- Top Layer: Gently fold shredded coconut into the whipped topping and spread over the pudding layer.
- Garnish & Chill: Optionally, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- For an extra tropical twist, substitute some of the whipped topping with coconut-flavored whipped cream.
- This dessert can be made up to a day in advance and chilled until ready to serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 150mg
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