Name: No-Bake Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Crust:; 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; Filling:; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (or 2 cups homemade whipped cream); 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional); Garnish:; Lemon slices (optional); Extra whipped cream (optional)

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No-Bake Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a refreshing, tangy, and creamy dessert that comes together effortlessly with minimal ingredients. This pie combines the smoothness of cream cheese with the bright, zesty flavor of lemonade, creating the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The best part? It’s a no-bake recipe, which makes it incredibly simple and ideal for hot days when I don’t want to turn on the oven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this No-Bake Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie because it’s incredibly easy to make, and it’s packed with flavor. The creamy filling is light yet rich, with the lemonade giving it a refreshing citrus twist that’s perfect for any season. The buttery graham cracker crust adds just the right crunch, making every bite a satisfying combination of smooth, tangy, and sweet. Whether I’m serving it at a summer gathering, a holiday dinner, or just because, this pie is always a hit!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (or 2 cups homemade whipped cream)
1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)

For Garnish:

Lemon slices (optional)
Extra whipped cream (optional)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan to form an even crust.
Refrigerate the crust for at least 30 minutes to firm up while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy.
Add the lemon juice and lemon zest, and mix until fully combined.
Gently fold in the whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream) and powdered sugar (if using). Stir until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined.

3. Assemble the Pie:

Once the crust has chilled, pour the cream cheese filling into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Smooth the top and refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until it’s firm and set. For best results, refrigerating overnight is ideal.

4. Garnish and Serve:

Before serving, I can garnish the pie with lemon slices and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy the refreshing, creamy goodness of this easy, no-bake pie!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 8 servings. It takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 4 hours of chilling time, for a total of about 4 hours and 15 minutes. The hands-on time is minimal, making this pie perfect for busy days or when I want a fuss-free dessert!

Variations

Fruit Variations: For a fruity twist, I can top the pie with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, or even a layer of fruit preserves like strawberry or raspberry jam.
Graham Cracker Crust Alternatives: If I want to change things up, I can use a store-bought cookie crust (like a shortbread or vanilla wafer crust) for a different flavor or texture.
Lemonade Frozen Pie: For a frozen version of this pie, I can place it in the freezer instead of the fridge, allowing it to firm up into a frozen dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Add a Crunch: To give the filling an added texture, I can mix in crushed graham crackers, toasted coconut, or chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.

Storage/Reheating

The No-Bake Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. It’s best served chilled, and I can also freeze any leftovers for up to a month. To serve frozen leftovers, simply thaw the pie in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! I can switch the graham cracker crust for an Oreo crust, vanilla wafer crust, or even a shortbread cookie crust for a different flavor. The filling will still pair well with these alternatives.

Can I make this pie dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, I can substitute the cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut whipped topping or a similar dairy-free option. The sweetened condensed milk can be replaced with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut condensed milk.

Can I make this pie without lemon juice?

While lemon juice gives the pie its signature tang, I can experiment with lime juice or orange juice for a different citrusy flavor. The result will be a slightly different, but still delicious, no-bake pie!

How can I make this pie sweeter?

If I prefer a sweeter pie, I can add more powdered sugar to the filling. I can taste the filling as I go and adjust the sweetness to suit my preference.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie is perfect for making ahead of time! It needs at least 4 hours to chill, but I can easily make it the night before and let it set overnight. It will be ready to serve the next day!

Conclusion

No-Bake Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is the perfect dessert for any occasion when I want something cool, creamy, and full of citrusy flavor. With its rich, smooth filling and easy preparation, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for the family, this pie is sure to be a hit every time!