Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This No Bake Lemon Pie is the ultimate easy dessert. It requires minimal ingredients and no oven time, making it ideal for those hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the stove. The creamy lemon filling is balanced perfectly with the sweetness of the graham cracker crust, and the tangy flavor of lemon provides a refreshing contrast. Plus, it’s easy to customize – you can adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking.
Ingredients
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1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or homemade if preferred)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Whipped cream for topping (optional)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
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Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
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Pour the lemon mixture into the pre-made graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
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Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or until it’s firm and set.
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Once the pie is set, top with whipped cream, if desired, and garnish with additional lemon zest or slices for decoration.
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Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious No Bake Lemon Pie!
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 8-10 people.
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Chill time: 3 hours
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Total time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Variations
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Graham Cracker Crust Alternatives: Use a store-bought or homemade crust made from vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies for a different base flavor.
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Coconut Lemon Pie: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
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Berry Topping: Top the pie with fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for an added fruity touch.
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Lemon Meringue: If you prefer meringue, you can top the pie with homemade meringue and lightly brown it under the broiler for a traditional lemon meringue look.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to make it ahead of time, this pie can be prepared a day or two in advance for convenience.
This pie does not need reheating since it's served chilled. Simply remove it from the fridge and slice it when ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I make this No Bake Lemon Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this pie a day or two ahead. Just ensure it is properly covered and stored in the fridge.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice gives the pie the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice will work as a substitute in a pinch.
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! You can use a graham cracker, vanilla wafer, or even an Oreo crust depending on your preference.
How can I make the filling sweeter?
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more sweetened condensed milk or a little powdered sugar to taste.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the pie for 3 hours?
Yes, chilling the pie allows the filling to set properly, giving it the right texture.
Can I freeze the No Bake Lemon Pie?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I use non-dairy substitutes?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese, and use a plant-based sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free version.
Can I add more lemon zest?
Absolutely! If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add more zest to the filling.
How do I know when the pie is set and ready to serve?
The pie is ready when the filling is firm to the touch and has a smooth, cohesive texture. It should hold its shape when sliced.
Can I use a different topping besides whipped cream?
Yes, you can top the pie with fresh fruit, toasted coconut, or even a drizzle of lemon glaze for added flavor.
Conclusion
This No Bake Lemon Pie is a light, refreshing, and simple dessert that anyone can make, even beginners. With its creamy lemon filling and buttery crust, it’s the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet and tangy cravings. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering, a summer BBQ, or just as an after-dinner treat, this pie will be a crowd-pleaser.
No Bake Lemon Pie
This No Bake Lemon Pie combines a creamy, tangy lemon filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust, offering a refreshing citrus burst without needing to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or homemade if preferred)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp vanilla extract
Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
- Pour the lemon mixture into the pre-made graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or until it’s firm and set.
- Once the pie is set, top with whipped cream, if desired, and garnish with additional lemon zest or slices for decoration.
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious No Bake Lemon Pie!
Notes
- You can make this pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For a different flavor, try using vanilla wafer, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies for the crust.
- Feel free to add shredded coconut for a tropical twist or top with fresh berries for added fruitiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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