No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie
A classic summer dessert featuring a tangy lemon filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. This no-bake pie is refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for warm weather gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Fresh berries or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, beating until well combined. Add lemon juice and lemon zest (if using) and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the lemon filling over the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the top.
- Chill: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
- Prepare the Topping: Just before serving, beat chilled heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Spread whipped cream over the top of the pie.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh berries or lemon slices, if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Don’t overbeat the whipped cream.
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk.
- You can adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking by adding more or less lemon juice or sugar.
- Store leftover pie in the refrigerator.