Lemon Cream Cheese Refrigerator Dessert No Bake Recipe

This dreamy no-bake lemon dessert (except for a quick crust!) is bursting with refreshing lemon flavor and creamy texture. Made with a buttery graham cracker crust, tangy lemon filling, and fluffy cream cheese mixture, it's the perfect make-ahead treat for summer gatherings or any occasion. Elevate the classic lemon pie filling with fresh lemon juice for an extra zing! Easily doubled for a larger crowd – we highly recommend it!

Prep Time 45 mins
Cook Time 180 mins
Calories 406.3 kcal
Protein 8g
Rating 3.6 (5 Reviews)
Lemon Cream Cheese Refrigerator Dessert No Bake 47

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Lemon Cream Cheese Refrigerator Dessert No Bake

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How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Refrigerator Dessert No Bake

  1. Lightly grease an 11x7 inch or 9-inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare your favorite lemon pie filling recipe (approximately 1 1/2 cups). If using a boxed mix, stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and a few drops of yellow food coloring (optional).
  3. Remove the lemon filling from the stovetop and let it cool to room temperature until it's slightly cooled (not completely cold).
  4. In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix until evenly moistened.
  5. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
  6. Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
  7. In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces (227g) softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and beat until combined.
  8. Gently fold in 1 (8 ounce) container of thawed cool whip, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  9. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
  10. Spread the cooled lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer.
  11. Top with a thin layer of whipped cream or additional cool whip (optional).
  12. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

10 g

Sugar

115g

Fat

91g

Carbs

12g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Occasion Desserts Eggs Dairy Fruit Easy Refrigerator Beginner Cook Dinner Party Holiday Event Kid Friendly Easter Dietary Citrus Lemon Taste Mood Sweet Equipment 4 Hours Or Less