🍋 No-Bake Lemon Cream Cheese Pie Cups

Introduction:

Need a fast, fabulous, and foolproof dessert that tastes like sunshine in a cup? Say hello to No-Bake Lemon Cream Cheese Pie Cups — a light, creamy, and citrusy treat that’s ready in minutes and guaranteed to impress. These single-serve lemon pie parfaits are made with a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety lemon cream cheese filling, and topped with whipped cream and lemon zest for the perfect finishing touch.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a spring baby shower, summer BBQ, or just craving something sweet and refreshing, this is your go-to dessert. Plus — no baking required! They’re chill, literally and figuratively.

📝 Ingredients:

For the Crust Layer:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets)

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling:

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings:

• Whipped cream or whipped topping

• Extra lemon zest or thin lemon slices for garnish

• Optional: fresh berries for a pop of color

Serves 4–6 depending on cup size

👩‍🍳 Preparation:

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of crust mixture into the bottom of small jars, cups, or dessert glasses. Press lightly with the back of a spoon. Set aside or refrigerate while you make the filling.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy.

Add in the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat again until completely smooth and creamy. The lemon juice will slightly thicken the mixture as it combines with the condensed milk.

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Step 3: Assemble the Cups

Spoon or pipe the lemon cream filling over the crust layer in each cup. Use a spoon to smooth the tops.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the texture set. You can also make them a few hours ahead or even the night before.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

Before serving, top with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and an optional lemon slice or berry for a beautiful finishing touch.

🔄 Variation:

• No graham crackers? Use crushed vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even gingersnaps for a spicier crust.

• Want more tang? Add a bit of lemon curd on top of the cream filling before adding whipped cream.

• Make it layered: Alternate layers of crust and filling in a tall dessert glass for a parfait-style look.

• Mini Cheesecake Bites: Use mini cupcake liners to make bite-sized versions for parties.

🍳 Cooking Note:

The longer these chill, the firmer the texture becomes. For a looser, mousse-like consistency, chill for 1 hour. For a firmer, cheesecake-style set, chill 4+ hours or overnight.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• These look adorable in mason jars or mini trifle glasses.

• Serve as part of a dessert bar or picnic spread.

• Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or prosecco for a refreshing combo.

• Double the recipe for a crowd — they disappear fast!

💡 Tips:

• Zest the lemons before you juice them.

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture.

• Want it sweeter? Add 1–2 tablespoons powdered sugar to the filling.

• Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

⏱️ Prep Time:

15 minutes

⏲️ Chill Time:

1–4 hours

⌛ Total Time:

20 minutes (plus chill)

🧪 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving – based on 6 cups):

Calories: 310
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 180mg

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch. Just add extra zest to boost flavor.

Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and sweetened condensed coconut milk, plus a vegan butter for the crust.

Q: Do these freeze well?
A: Not ideal for freezing — the texture may change. Best enjoyed fresh within a few days.

Q: Can I make one big pie instead of cups?
A: Absolutely! Just press the crust into a 9-inch pie dish, add the filling, chill, and slice to serve.

📝 Conclusion:

These No-Bake Lemon Cream Cheese Pie Cups are proof that dessert doesn’t need to be complicated to be completely crave-worthy. Tangy, creamy, and sweet with a buttery crunch — every spoonful is like sunshine on a summer afternoon.

Ready in minutes and irresistibly refreshing, this easy recipe is perfect for busy days, lazy weekends, or anytime you’re looking to impress with very little stress. 🍋💛

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