Easy No-Bake Lemon Pie

Looking for a dessert that’s cool, refreshing, and so incredibly easy to whip up? Look no further than this Easy No-Bake Lemon Pie! It’s everything you love about lemon desserts—the tart, zesty filling and the creamy, smooth texture—without the need for turning on your oven. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and citrusy on a warm day or need a quick dessert for a gathering, this pie is your go-to. It’s light, fresh, and absolutely irresistible.

Plus, it comes together in just a few simple steps. You’ll love the way the tangy lemon pairs with the sweet, buttery graham cracker crust. And the best part? No baking required—just mix, chill, and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love Easy No-Bake Lemon Pie

• No-Bake Magic: You can enjoy this pie without ever turning on the oven—perfect for when it’s too hot outside or you just want to skip the baking.
• Quick & Easy: With only a few ingredients, this dessert comes together in a flash. You’ll spend more time enjoying the pie than making it!
• Perfectly Tangy: The refreshing zing of lemon will have your taste buds dancing. It’s the right amount of tart and sweet.
• Cool & Refreshing: The chilled filling is light and creamy, making it the perfect summer dessert or after-dinner treat.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the topping, add berries, or even use a store-bought crust to save even more time.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: The base for the pie that gives a deliciously crunchy texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: To sweeten the crust just a little bit.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the crust together.

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy texture that perfectly balances the tangy lemon.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and helps thicken the filling.
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice: The star of the show! It adds that tangy, refreshing lemon flavor.
• Zest of 1 lemon: For an extra pop of citrusy goodness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: To enhance the overall flavor of the filling.

For the Topping (optional):

• Whipped cream: A light, fluffy topping that adds extra creaminess.
• Lemon slices: For a fresh, decorative touch.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well coated. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon to make sure the crust is compact and even. Place the crust in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, beating until fully combined. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is smooth and well-incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Once the filling is ready, pour it into the chilled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top. Chill the pie in the fridge for at least 4 hours or until the filling has set. (If you can wait overnight, even better!)

Step 4: Add Toppings (Optional)

Once the pie has set, top it with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a few lemon slices for a beautiful finishing touch. You can also add a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or fresh berries if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Slice into the pie and enjoy the sweet, tangy goodness! This easy, no-bake lemon pie will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 310
Total Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 170mg
Total Carbohydrate: 34g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 27g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve Easy No-Bake Lemon Pie

• With Berries: Serve slices of pie with a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• With Extra Whipped Cream: Don’t skimp on the whipped cream—it pairs so well with the lemony filling!
• As a Cupcake: Make individual no-bake lemon pies by serving the filling in cupcake liners with a graham cracker crust at the bottom.

Additional Tips

• Make It Ahead: This pie is perfect for prepping the day before. It holds up well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• For a More Tart Flavor: Increase the amount of lemon juice or zest to give the pie an even tangier kick.
• Use a Store-Bought Crust: If you’re short on time, grab a pre-made graham cracker crust from the store—this recipe is all about making things easy!
• Frozen Variation: If you want to make it more like an ice cream cake, freeze the pie instead of refrigerating it. Just let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this pie without the cream cheese?
A1: You can try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, but the texture and taste will be a bit different.

Q2: How long can I store this pie?
A2: You can store the pie in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it and thaw it before serving.

Q3: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
A3: Fresh lemon juice is always best for flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Just make sure to taste test to ensure the flavor is strong enough.

Q4: Can I make this in individual servings?
A4: Absolutely! You can make mini pies in small cups or jars. Just adjust the crust size accordingly.

Q5: Can I use a different type of crust?
A5: Yes, you can swap the graham cracker crust for a digestive biscuit crust or even a cookie crust for a different flavor.

Q6: What if I don’t like whipped cream?
A6: You can skip the whipped cream or replace it with a drizzle of lemon glaze or a layer of meringue for a different texture.

Q7: Can I add something extra to the filling?
A7: You can mix in some fruit, like fresh blueberries or raspberries, into the filling for an added burst of flavor.

Q8: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
A8: Yes! Simply use a gluten-free graham cracker crust, and the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q9: Can I make the crust with something other than graham crackers?
A9: Definitely! You can use crushed vanilla wafers or even oatmeal cookies for a different flavor base.

Q10: How do I make sure the pie sets properly?
A10: Make sure to refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure the filling has enough time to set.

Conclusion

This Easy No-Bake Lemon Pie is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves fresh, citrusy flavors and easy prep. With its creamy, tangy filling and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s the kind of dessert that always gets rave reviews. Plus, it’s a total breeze to make—just mix, chill, and enjoy. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this pie will be the star of the show.

Print