Decadent No-Bake Mocha Lush: Your Ultimate Layered Chocolate Coffee Dessert

Indulge in the ultimate blend of rich chocolate and invigorating coffee with this incredible Mocha Lush recipe. This light, airy, and cool dessert offers a symphony of delicious chocolatey and mocha flavors, making it an absolute showstopper for any occasion. Designed as a layered dessert, it features a convenient no-bake option for the crust, ensuring it’s wonderfully creamy, sweet, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a fan of our Coconut Cream Lush or Lemon Lush, you’ll find this Mocha Lush fits perfectly into your rotation of crowd-pleasing summer desserts, yielding 12 generous slices per recipe.

What is Mocha Lush? Your New Favorite Layered Dessert

Mocha Lush is a delightful, multi-layered dessert that brings together the robust flavor of coffee with the sweet comfort of chocolate. This particular recipe stands out as a one-pan dessert, simplifying both preparation and cleanup. What makes it truly special is the inclusion of a no-bake crust option, perfect for those sweltering summer days when the thought of turning on your oven is simply unbearable. While it might bear a visual resemblance to our popular chocolate lasagna, rest assured, its unique mocha-infused flavor profile offers a distinctly different and equally irresistible experience. Each layer contributes to a harmonious balance of textures and tastes, creating a dessert that’s not just food, but an experience.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Mocha Lush Recipe

There are countless reasons why this Mocha Lush will quickly become a cherished recipe in your culinary collection. Its appeal lies in its perfect combination of convenience and decadence. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, especially with the no-bake crust option, which eliminates the need for an oven. This makes it a fantastic choice for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a stress-free dessert solution.

The dessert itself is light and airy, a refreshing contrast to many heavy, rich treats. This quality, combined with its cool temperature, makes it an ideal dessert for warm weather gatherings, backyard BBQs, or festive summer holidays. The marriage of chocolate and coffee flavors is a classic for a reason; the coffee enhances the depth of the chocolate without overpowering it, creating a sophisticated and satisfying taste.

Furthermore, this Mocha Lush is a true crowd-pleaser. Its generous 12-slice yield makes it perfect for feeding a large group, whether you’re hosting a potluck, a family reunion, or a celebratory meal. Everyone will appreciate the stunning layers and the delightful taste that comes from each spoonful. It’s a dessert that looks impressive but requires minimal effort, allowing you more time to enjoy your guests and less time in the kitchen.

Crafting Your Mocha Lush: Key Ingredients

The beauty of this Mocha Lush lies in its distinct layers, each contributing a unique texture and flavor. Below are the key ingredients you’ll need, categorized by layer, along with some helpful tips for each. Remember, quality ingredients make a big difference in the final taste!

Ingredients for Mocha Lush

Bottom Chocolate Graham Cracker Crust Layer (for no-bake crust option): This quick and easy crust is perfect for hot days or when you simply want to skip baking. It provides a delightful chocolatey base without any oven time.

2 (5 ounce) packages of chocolate graham crackers, finely ground using a food processor or manually crushing. (Approx. 10 ounces total)
5-8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted and cooled. *I give a range for the amount because I have found that depending on the humidity, you may need more or less butter to achieve the perfect consistency for pressing. Start with 5 and add more if needed.

Bottom Pecan Crust Layer (for baked crust option): For those who prefer a more traditional, slightly crumbly and nutty crust, this baked option adds a fantastic depth of flavor and texture.

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1/2 cup finely chopped or food processor processed pecans (great for the mini food processor for consistency)
1/4 cup granulated white sugar

Cream Cheese Layer: This tangy and sweet layer provides a delightful counterpoint to the rich chocolate and coffee flavors, adding a creamy, cheesecake-like element.

2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature. (Allows for easier, smoother mixing)
1 cup granulated white sugar
1-2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice. (The lemon juice brightens the cream cheese flavor and helps cut through the sweetness.)

Mocha Pudding Layer: The heart of the “mocha” in our lush, combining convenience with classic flavors.

2 (3.4 ounce) packages instant chocolate pudding mix. (Do not use cook-and-serve pudding.)
4 cups milk (you can also do 3 1/2, if you want it slightly thicker). (Whole milk usually yields the creamiest result.)
2 packets of Starbucks Via (Italian Roast or another dark roast flavor) or 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder. (This provides the essential coffee kick. Adjust to your taste preference for stronger or milder mocha.)

Whipped Topping & Chocolate Morsels Layer: The final, fluffy flourish that makes this dessert irresistibly light.

1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping (I used Cool Whip), you can substitute the same amount of homemade whipped cream for a richer flavor.
1/4 cup (or more!) mini semi-sweet chocolate morsels. (Mini morsels ensure a smoother cut and more even distribution.)
Optional: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans on top (this would complement the baked pecan crust option wonderfully).

Essential Kitchen Tools for a Perfect Mocha Lush

Having the right tools can make preparing this Mocha Lush even more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s a helpful list of kitchen essentials that will assist you in creating perfectly layered goodness:

9-inch x 13-inch baking pan: This is the standard size for lush desserts, ensuring adequate layers and serving portions.
Food processor: Invaluable for finely grinding graham crackers or pecans for your chosen crust, ensuring a uniform and perfect base.
Large mixing bowls: You’ll need a few to prepare each distinct layer separately before assembly.
Measuring cups: Essential for precise dry ingredient measurements.
Wet measure: For accurately measuring liquids like milk and melted butter.
Baking spatula: Ideal for scraping down bowls and mixing ingredients thoroughly.
Whisk: Crucial for smoothly combining the pudding mix and milk, preventing lumps.
Offset spatula: Your secret weapon for spreading each layer evenly and gently, ensuring clean, distinct lines.
Spatula for serving: A sturdy, flat-edged spatula will help you lift out perfect slices without disturbing the layers.

I specifically recommend using mini semi-sweet chocolate morsels for the topping. Their smaller size makes them easier to bite into and creates a more cohesive texture within each slice of Mocha Lush, compared to larger chocolate chips.

Tips for Mocha Lush Perfection

Achieving a picture-perfect and deliciously balanced Mocha Lush is easier than you think with these expert tips:

Choosing Your Crust: Both the chocolate graham cracker (no-bake) and pecan (baked) crust options are fantastic. The no-bake crust is a time-saver and keeps your kitchen cool, while the pecan crust offers a wonderfully nutty crunch. Consider the occasion and your personal preference when deciding.
Layering Like a Pro: For beautifully defined layers, an offset spatula is your best friend. Spread each layer gently and evenly to the edges of the pan. Make sure to clean your spatula between layers to prevent colors from mixing and maintain those crisp lines.
Chilling for Success: Chilling is paramount for a lush dessert. Each layer benefits from a brief chill, but the final dessert requires at least 4 hours, and ideally overnight, in the refrigerator. This allows the layers to set firmly, making for cleaner cuts and a more satisfying texture. For even more defined slices, consider freezing the Mocha Lush overnight. Just remember to use whipped topping like Cool Whip, as homemade whipped cream might not hold up as well after freezing.
Achieving Distinct Slices: When ready to serve your chilled or frozen Mocha Lush, use a sharp knife to cut down through all the layers, reaching the bottom crust. This initial cut helps create clean edges. Then, use a sturdy serving spatula to lift out each slice, revealing the gorgeous layers. If frozen, it will defrost relatively quickly at room temperature.
Coffee Flavor Boost: The instant coffee powder or Starbucks Via packets are key to the “mocha” flavor. Don’t skip them! They don’t just add a coffee taste, but also enhance the depth of the chocolate, making it richer and more complex.

Perfect for Any Occasion: When to Serve Mocha Lush

This Mocha Lush recipe truly shines as a versatile dessert, ideal for a wide array of spring and summer festivities. Its cool, refreshing nature makes it a welcome treat for holidays such as Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Father’s Day, or Labor Day. Likewise, it’s an absolute staple for any BBQ, picnic, or potluck gathering where you need a dessert that travels well and feeds a crowd. Its elegant presentation belies its simple preparation, making you look like a culinary wizard without all the fuss. The combination of chocolate and coffee makes it a universally appealing flavor profile that guests of all ages will appreciate.

The instant coffee powder adds an extra flavor boost to the chocolate, creating a rich and satisfying mocha taste. Enjoy a slice of this magnificent Mocha Lush with a tall glass of cold milk, or for the ultimate coffee lover’s experience, pair it with a freshly brewed mug of coffee. It’s the perfect way to cap off a meal or simply enjoy as a decadent afternoon treat.

Who can resist a slice of this luscious Mocha Lush? With its delightful layers and irresistible flavor, it’s bound to disappear quickly from any dessert table.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Mocha Lush

Can I make Mocha Lush ahead of time?: Absolutely! In fact, it’s highly recommended. This dessert needs at least 4 hours to chill and set properly, but chilling it overnight will yield the best results with firmer, more defined layers. It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties.
How long does Mocha Lush last?: When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Mocha Lush will stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. While it’s safe to eat for a bit longer, the textures and flavors are best within this timeframe.
Can I use decaf coffee?: Yes, you can! If you prefer to avoid caffeine or are serving this dessert in the evening, feel free to use decaffeinated instant coffee powder or decaf Starbucks Via packets. The flavor will still be fantastic.
What if I don’t have a food processor for the crust?: No problem! For the graham cracker crust, you can place the crackers in a large resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan until very fine. For the pecan crust, you can finely chop the pecans by hand, though a food processor ensures a more consistent grind.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?: Yes, you can substitute homemade whipped cream for Cool Whip. Use the same amount (8 ounces by volume). However, if you plan to freeze the Mocha Lush for extra firm slices, stick with a stabilized whipped topping like Cool Whip, as homemade whipped cream might not maintain its texture as well after freezing and thawing.

I know you will absolutely adore this Mocha Lush recipe! It’s truly a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with the added benefit of being wonderfully easy to prepare.

Check out more one-pan desserts for your next BBQ or gathering below!

Pineapple Dream Dessert
Boston Cream Poke Cake
No Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
Strawberry Icebox Cake
Pistachio Lush
Cherry Lush

Mocha Lush

This Mocha Lush recipe is a light, airy and cool dessert that serves up delicious, chocolate-y, mocha flavor. This layered dessert recipe has a no bake option and is creamy and sweet.

5 from 6 votes

IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!

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Course:
Desserts

Cuisine:
American

Servings:

12
slices

1 hour

35 minutes

Calories:
739

Author:
Amanda Davis

Ingredients

Bottom Chocolate Graham Cracker Crust Layer (for no bake crust option):

▢ 10 ounces chocolate graham crackers, finely ground using a food processor or manually crushing 2 5-ounce packages
▢ 5-8 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled *I give a range for the amount because I have found that depending on the humidity, you may need more or less butter

Bottom Pecan Crust Layer (for baked crust option):

▢ 2 cups all-purpose flour
▢ 1 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
▢ ½ cup finely chopped or food processor processed pecans
▢ ¼ cup granulated white sugar

Cream Cheese Layer:

▢ 16 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
▢ 1 cup granulated white sugar
▢ 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice

Mocha Pudding Layer:

▢ 6.8 ounces instant chocolate pudding 2 3.4-ounce packages
▢ 4 cups milk you can also do 3 1/2, if you want it slightly thicker
▢ 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder or 2 packets of Starbucks Via

Whipped Topping & Chocolate Morsels Layer:

▢ 8 ounces Cool Whip
▢ ¼ cup mini semi sweet chocolate morsels
▢ Optional: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans on top (this would go if you chose the bottom pecan crust option

Before You Begin

I suggest using an offset spatula for spreading the layers and make sure it’s clean before starting a new layer. After refrigerating, for serving to show more defined layers, you can just take a butter knife and “wipe” along the sides and the layers will show nicely. You can freeze the Mocha Lush overnight (at least 6 hours) to get more defined slices. Make sure you use a sharp knife to cut down into the bottom crust first before removing with the spatula. It will defrost fairly quickly depending on the room temperature.

Instructions

Bottom Chocolate Graham Cracker Crust (for a no bake crust option): In a medium-large bowl, mix melted and cooled unsalted butter with finely ground, processed graham crackers. Press into the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan. Cover and chill until the next layer is ready.
Bottom Pecan Crust Layer (for traditional lush baked crust option): Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, melted and cooled butter, finely ground pecans and 1/4 cup sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking pan. Bake 20-25 minutes (25 mins works best for me) until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before adding any layers.
Cream Cheese Layer (2nd layer): Using a hand electric mixer, combine cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, 1-2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice (2 tablespoons works best for me). Mixture should be even and smooth. Spread evenly on top of the baked and cooled bottom pecan crust or no bake graham cracker crust.
Mocha Pudding Layer: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve 2 packets of Starbucks Italian Roast (or 1 teaspoon other instant coffee) into milk. Whisk coffee-milk mixture and instant chocolate pudding mix until set. It may take 4-5 minutes to thicken. Spread evenly on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Whipped Topping & Mini Semi Sweet Chocolate Morsels Layer: Spread thawed whipped topping on top of the mocha pudding layer. Optionally, you can freeze the Mocha Lush overnight for more defined slices. Do not freeze if you substitute homemade whipped cream because it might not hold up like frozen whipped topping like Cool Whip. Enjoy!

Nutrition

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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.

This post originally appeared here on June 12, 2016.