Description
This Easy No-Bake Lemon Pie is a refreshing and creamy dessert perfect for any occasion. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious lemon-infused cream cheese filling, this pie requires no oven time and is chilled to set. It’s simple to make, bursting with tangy citrus flavor, and topped with whipped cream for a light finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Refrigerate the crust for 10-15 minutes to set.
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar (if using) until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the lemon filling into the chilled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top and make sure it’s evenly distributed.
- Chill the Pie: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. The filling will set and become firm.
- Serve: Once the pie has chilled and set, slice and serve. Optionally, garnish with extra lemon zest, whipped cream, or fresh lemon slices.
Notes
- For best results, chill the pie overnight to allow the filling to fully set.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- The powdered sugar in the whipped cream is optional and can be adjusted based on your sweetness preference.
- You can garnish with fresh berries or lemon slices for an elegant presentation.
- Be sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
