No Bake Lemon Pie
No Bake Lemon Pie is the epitome of a refreshing dessert that leaves your taste buds zinging with delight. Its zesty flavor makes it a delightful choice for warm summer days, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners when you want to impress without the fuss of baking. I have fond memories of whipping this up at the last minute when friends dropped by, and it’s a surefire hit every time.
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the best things about No Bake Lemon Pie is its simplicity. It doesn’t require an oven, making it a fantastic option for those hot summer months when the last thing you want to do is turn on the stove. It’s a budget-friendly dessert that uses common ingredients, and the sweet-tart balance of lemon and cream makes it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—it can serve as the perfect ending to a holiday meal or a refreshing treat on a sunny afternoon.
“This No Bake Lemon Pie was a hit at our family gathering! Creamy, light, and just the right amount of zing. I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip up!” – A Happy Baker
Preparing No Bake Lemon Pie
Creating this luscious dessert is a breeze. You’ll be blending flavors and textures in no time. The process involves a crust made from crushed graham crackers, a creamy lemon filling, and a fluffy whipped topping. Expect to be amazed at how quickly you can prepare this dessert, making it ideal for unexpected guests or a sweet reward after dinner.
What you’ll need
Here’s a straightforward list of ingredients that will come together to form this delicious pie:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (fresh is best!)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option or buy pre-made graham cracker crusts if you want to save some time.
Step-by-step instructions
Ready to make your No Bake Lemon Pie? Just follow these simple steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Use a spoon or spatula to mix well, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a pie dish to create an even crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest until you get a smooth mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream along with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This will give your pie that light, airy texture.
- Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until everything is combined. Then, fold in the remaining whipped cream, being careful not to deflate it.
- Pour the creamy lemon filling into your prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Place the pie in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or until it’s completely set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy a refreshing bite of lemon goodness!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it’s finally time to serve your No Bake Lemon Pie, consider garnishing it with fresh berries, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or even a dollop of extra whipped cream for that extra touch. Pair it with a refreshing iced tea or a light glass of white wine for a delightful afternoon dessert. You could also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad to enhance its zesty flavors.
How to store
Got leftovers? You can store any uneaten pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. If you’re thinking about longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to a month. Just be aware that while the crust will hold up well, freezing can slightly alter the texture of the whipped cream topping.
Helpful cooking tips
For best results, use freshly squeezed lemon juice—it truly enhances the flavor of the pie. Make sure your heavy cream is cold; this will help it whip up to the perfect consistency. If you want an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a little more lemon zest to the filling for an aromatic touch.
Creative twists
If you’d like to mix things up, consider adding a layer of fresh fruit on top of the lemon filling before you chill the pie—berries, thin slices of kiwi, or even a layer of lime curd can be delightful additions. You could also experiment with flavored whipped cream, like vanilla or coconut, for added zing.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare this pie?
The total prep time is about 20 minutes, but remember you’ll need to chill it for at least 4 hours to set properly.
Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use a mixture of yogurt and a sweetener of your choice to mimic the creaminess of condensed milk.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses graham cracker crumbs, which typically contain gluten. However, you can easily substitute gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or use a nut-based crust for a gluten-free version.
With these details, you’re all set to make and enjoy an incredible No Bake Lemon Pie. Get ready to share a slice with family and friends—it’s bound to become a favorite!
No Bake Lemon Pie
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Use a spoon or spatula to mix well, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a pie dish to create an even crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest until you get a smooth mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream along with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until everything is combined. Then, fold in the remaining whipped cream, being careful not to deflate it.
- Pour the creamy lemon filling into your prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Place the pie in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or until it’s completely set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy a refreshing bite of lemon goodness!
