Lemon Cream Cheese Refrigerator Dessert No Bake
Indulge in the refreshing citrus tang of this no-bake Lemon Cream Cheese Refrigerator Dessert, a show-stopping treat that combines creamy texture with zesty flavor in every bite. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky lemon cream cheese filling, and a fluffy whipped topping, this dessert is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. With no oven required, it's the perfect no-fuss recipe for warm summer days or when you need a make-ahead dessert idea for gatherings. Ready in just 25 minutes of prep time, this crowd-pleaser serves up to 12 and requires simple, fresh ingredients like freshly squeezed lemon juice, cream cheese, and whipped cream. Complete with an optional garnish of lemon zest or slices, this chilled lemon dessert will brighten up any table.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup Unsalted butter (melted)
- 0.25 cups Granulated sugar (for crust)
- 16 ounces Cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 0.5 cups Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 3 cups Whipped topping (or whipped cream)
- Optional: Lemon slices or zest for garnish
Instructions
1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan, creating an even layer for the crust. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to pack it tightly. Place in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Continue to beat until fully combined and smooth.
5. Gently fold 2 cups of whipped topping into the lemon cream cheese mixture. Fold until no streaks remain for a uniform and fluffy filling.
6. Spread the lemon cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust, using a spatula to create a smooth surface.
7. Spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping over the lemon filling as the final layer. Again, spread it evenly for a clean finish.
8. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow it to set properly.
9. Before serving, garnish with optional lemon slices or a sprinkle of lemon zest for presentation. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
6228 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 469.9 g | 602% | |
| Saturated Fat | 317.7 g | 1588% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1019 mg | 340% | |
| Sodium | 3173 mg | 138% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 488.7 g | 178% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.7 g | 28% | |
| Total Sugars | 294.5 g | ||
| Protein | 47.6 g | 95% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 639 mg | 49% | |
| Iron | 10.4 mg | 58% | |
| Potassium | 1034 mg | 22% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
