Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This No Bake Lemon Pie is incredibly easy to make, and the flavors are out of this world! The creamy, citrusy filling paired with the crunchy graham cracker crust is a match made in dessert heaven. It’s light, tangy, and sweet, with a refreshing lemon flavor that makes it perfect for summer, holiday dinners, or anytime you’re craving a citrusy dessert. Plus, it only takes a few simple ingredients and a little chill time to make!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
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1 tablespoon lemon zest
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 ½ cups whipped topping (or Cool Whip)
For Topping (optional):
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Extra whipped topping for garnish
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Lemon slices or zest for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Make the Crust:
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Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are moistened.
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Press into a Pie Dish: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon to pack it in tightly.
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Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling to let it set.
Make the Lemon Filling:
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Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until well combined and creamy.
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Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Pie:
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Fill the Crust: Pour the lemon filling into the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up and set.
Serve:
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Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top with extra whipped topping and garnish with lemon slices or zest for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Enjoy!
Slice and serve your No Bake Lemon Pie chilled for a refreshing and satisfying treat!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8 slices
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
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Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Variations
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Add Fruit: Add fresh berries or lemon curd on top for an extra burst of flavor.
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Graham Cracker Alternatives: Use an Oreo crust or shortbread cookie crust for a different flavor.
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More Tangy: If you like your lemon desserts extra tangy, add a little more lemon zest or lemon juice to the filling.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: This pie can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice if needed. Fresh zest will give you the best citrus flavor in the filling.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it’s best if allowed to chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the pie to firm up properly.
Can I add more whipped topping to the filling?
You can, but adding too much whipped topping may affect the texture of the filling. Stick to the 1 ½ cups for the right balance.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust for convenience. Just skip the steps for making the crust and proceed with the filling.
Conclusion
No Bake Lemon Pie is a delightful and easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, citrusy filling and crunchy graham cracker crust, this pie is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. It’s a simple yet impressive treat that requires minimal effort and is sure to be a crowd favorite. Whether you serve it at a summer BBQ, holiday gathering, or just as an after-dinner treat, this pie is sure to be a hit!

No Bake Lemon Pie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
No Bake Lemon Pie is a refreshing, creamy, and tangy dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth lemon filling, and a fluffy whipped topping. This easy, no-bake dessert is perfect for warm weather, holiday gatherings, or whenever you want a simple and delicious treat. A crowd-pleasing pie that combines the sweetness of cream cheese with the tartness of fresh lemon, all without the need for an oven.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
-
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 graham crackers)
-
¼ cup granulated sugar
-
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
-
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
-
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
-
½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
-
1 tablespoon lemon zest
-
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 ½ cups whipped topping (or Cool Whip)
For Topping (Optional):
-
Extra whipped topping for garnish
- Lemon slices or zest for garnish
Instructions
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Make the Crust:
-
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
-
Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Pack it tightly using the back of a spoon.
-
Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
-
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Make the Lemon Filling:
-
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
-
Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
-
Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
-
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Assemble the Pie:
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Pour the lemon filling into the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pie to firm up.
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Serve:
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Before serving, garnish with extra whipped topping and lemon slices or zest for a refreshing touch.
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Slice and serve chilled.
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Notes
Add Fruit: Top with fresh berries or a spoonful of lemon curd for an extra burst of flavor.Graham Cracker Alternatives: Swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo or shortbread cookie crust for a twist.More Tangy: For a more intense lemon flavor, add additional lemon juice or zest to taste.