If you’re searching for a show-stopping yet impossibly easy sweet treat, let me introduce you to Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert. This no-bake dessert layers a buttery graham cracker crust, lush clouds of whipped cream and cream cheese, and a burst of zesty lemon curd. Every bite tastes like pure sunshine, and it’s almost effortless to throw together. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for family gatherings or when you simply want to treat yourself to something refreshingly tangy and rich.

Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert lies in its simplicity; each ingredient is carefully chosen to deliver the perfect harmony of creamy, citrusy, and crunchy. Let’s take a look at how every component plays a key role in the final, irresistible result.

Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups): These create a classic, slightly sweet crust that holds everything together and adds essential crunch.
Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Acts as the binder for your crust and delivers a decadent, buttery flavor.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the crust just enough to balance the tartness of the lemon.
Cream cheese, softened (16 oz): The foundation of that silky, tangy filling—be sure it’s at room temperature for extra-smooth blending.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Dissolves beautifully into the cream cheese, lending gentle sweetness and grace to the filling’s texture.
Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Once whipped, it transforms the filling into a fluffy, cloud-like dream.
Lemon curd (1/2 cup): Brings that bright, concentrated lemon flavor (use more if you crave extra zing!).
Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Pops in fragrant citrus oils and a lovely color, intensifying the dessert’s lemon character.
Additional lemon zest or slices for garnish (optional): For that stunning final flourish and even more zesty aroma.

How to Make Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert

Step 1: Mix and Press the Crust

Start by combining your graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Stir until you have a mixture that’s evenly moistened and crumbly. Press it firmly and evenly into the base of a 9×13-inch baking dish—this sturdy crust becomes the perfect foundation for your layers of creamy deliciousness.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until the mixture is luxuriously smooth and creamy. The key here is patience—mix until there’s no graininess left. Set aside while you whip up the next layer.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until you achieve stiff peaks. It should hold its shape when you lift the beaters—this step gives the filling its unforgettable, light-as-air texture.

Step 4: Combine and Layer the Filling

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Take your time and use a light hand to keep the mixture fluffy. Spread half of this dreamy filling evenly over your crust—try to get it all the way to the edges for even layers.

Step 5: Lemon Layer Perfection

In a small bowl, stir together the lemon curd and lemon zest until well mixed. Carefully spread this zippy lemon layer atop the creamy filling. It might seem like a modest amount, but trust—this is where the citrus magic happens.

Step 6: Top and Chill

Finish by layering on the remaining cream cheese mixture, smoothing the surface with a spatula. For an elegant touch, scatter extra lemon zest or artfully arranged lemon slices on top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and sliceable. The wait is utterly worth it!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert

Garnishes

This dessert loves a little sparkle! Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or delicate lemon slices for eye-catching appeal and a fragrant, citrusy boost. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprig of mint or a few edible flowers can amp up the wow factor even more.

Side Dishes

Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert pairs beautifully with a bowl of fresh berries—think raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries—for added freshness and color. If you want to keep things simple, a cup of hot tea or coffee is a delightful counterbalance to the creamy richness and lemon tang.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, try cutting the bars into small squares and nestling them in cupcake liners on a platter for easy grabbing. You can also layer them into individual glass jars or parfait cups for a fun, single-serve twist. Another favorite: drizzle a bit of extra lemon curd over each piece just before serving for an extra punch of citrus flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert keeps wonderfully! Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The texture holds up and the flavors often deepen, making each bite even better the next day.

Freezing

This dessert freezes surprisingly well. To freeze, cut into individual squares and place parchment between layers, then seal in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. For best flavor and texture, enjoy within one month of freezing.

Reheating

No reheating is required—this dessert is at its absolute best served cold straight from the fridge! If frozen, just ensure it’s completely thawed so all those luscious layers return to their creamy, dreamy state.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

Absolutely! Store-bought lemon curd works perfectly in Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert. If you have homemade on hand, feel free to use it for an extra-special, tangy twist.

What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?

No worries—you can use a slightly smaller or larger pan; just adjust the layer thickness and keep an eye on your yield. For a thicker dessert, try an 8×8-inch dish, or double the recipe for a crowd and use a larger baking dish.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free graham crackers in the crust layer. Everything else in Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert is naturally gluten-free, making this a great choice for guests with dietary restrictions.

How do I get clean slices when serving?

For the neatest slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This helps the blade glide through the creamy layers without sticking or smudging.

Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?

Of course! Try swirling raspberry puree into the lemon curd, topping with toasted coconut, or folding in some blueberries for a fruity surprise. The recipe is flexible enough to encourage your creativity.

Final Thoughts

When you need a sweet pick-me-up that’s both comforting and a little bit dazzling, Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert delivers every time. It’s become one of my go-to recipes for sharing and celebration, and I’m certain it’ll be a favorite for you too. Don’t wait for a special occasion—give it a try and treat yourself to a splash of lemony joy!

Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert Recipe

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4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, tangy goodness of this no-bake Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert. A luscious layered treat with a buttery graham cracker crust, zesty lemon curd, and a velvety cream cheese filling.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

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

Cream Cheese Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups heavy whipping cream

Lemon Layer:

1/2 cup lemon curd
1 tablespoon lemon zest

Additional lemon zest or slices for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into a 9×13-inch dish.
Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Whip cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into cream cheese mixture.
Layer and Chill: Spread half of cream mixture over crust. Spread lemon curd mixture. Top with remaining cream. Chill for at least 4 hours.