No-Bake Lemon Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These no-bake lemon bars are incredibly simple to make and perfect for hot weather when you don’t want to turn on the oven. The buttery graham cracker crust is perfectly complemented by the rich, tangy lemon filling, which sets into a smooth, creamy texture. They are sweet yet tart, making them the perfect balance of flavors. With just a few ingredients, this no-bake dessert is quick to assemble and can be stored in the refrigerator to set. It’s a refreshing dessert that’s both easy to make and deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients

For the crust:

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

For the lemon filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish to form an even crust layer. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes to allow the crust to firm up.
2. Make the Lemon Filling:
   In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer or hand whisk. Add the sweetened condensed milk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue to mix until everything is well combined and the filling is smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Bars:
   Pour the lemon filling over the chilled graham cracker crust. Spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
4. Chill the Bars:
   Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until the filling is fully set. For best results, let the bars chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
5. Serve:
   Once set, cut the lemon bars into squares or rectangles. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a few lemon slices for an extra touch of elegance, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 2-3 hours
• Total Time: 2.5-3.5 hours (including chilling)

Variations

• Berry Topping: Add fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries on top for a fruity twist and extra color.
• Graham Cracker-Free Crust: For a gluten-free option, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for the crust.
• Lime Bars: If you love lime, replace the lemon juice and zest with lime juice and zest for a citrusy variation.
• Coconut Crust: Mix shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical twist and added texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store the no-bake lemon bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Because the filling is creamy and perishable, it’s best to keep them chilled. If you have leftovers, simply refrigerate them and enjoy them as a refreshing treat throughout the week. Do not freeze, as the texture of the filling may change once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, store-bought graham cracker crumbs are perfectly fine to use. Just make sure to measure them correctly.

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

To make these bars dairy-free, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a dairy-free version (or make your own with coconut milk and sugar).

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

While fresh lemon juice is ideal for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch. Just be sure to use a good-quality product for the best results.

How long do the lemon bars need to chill?

The lemon bars need to chill for at least 2-3 hours to set properly. For the best texture and flavor, it’s ideal to chill them overnight.

Can I make these bars in advance?

Yes, these no-bake lemon bars are perfect for making ahead. They store well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, so they are a great make-ahead dessert.

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! If you prefer a different crust, you can use digestive biscuits, shortbread cookies, or even a nut-based crust for a change. Just make sure to adjust the amount of butter used to bind the crumbs together.

Can I add a meringue topping?

Yes! For an extra decadent touch, you can add a light meringue topping. Just whip egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form and bake it briefly in the oven to brown the meringue before serving.

Can I make these bars in a larger pan?

Yes, you can double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just adjust the chilling time to ensure the bars set properly.

How can I make these lemon bars sweeter or less sweet?

If you prefer a sweeter lemon bar, you can increase the amount of sweetened condensed milk. To make them less sweet, you can reduce the sweetened condensed milk slightly or add more lemon juice to balance out the sweetness.

Conclusion

No-bake lemon bars are the perfect refreshing treat, offering a zesty lemon filling with a buttery, crumbly crust—all without the need for baking. They are quick and easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and can be stored in the fridge for a make-ahead dessert. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just craving a citrusy dessert, these no-bake lemon bars will satisfy your sweet tooth with their perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. Try them today, and enjoy the refreshing burst of lemon in every bite!

No-Bake Lemon Bars

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No-bake lemon bars are a refreshing, tangy dessert with a smooth lemon filling and a buttery, crumbly graham cracker crust, perfect for a light, citrusy treat without the need for an oven.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 2.5-3.5 hours (including chilling)
• Yield: 12-16 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. For the crust:
   1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
   
   1/4 cup granulated sugar
   
   1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
   
   For the lemon filling:
   1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
   
   1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
   
   1 tablespoon lemon zest
   
   8 oz cream cheese, softened

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press into the bottom of an 8×8-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish to form an even layer. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.

1. Make the Lemon Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Assemble the Bars: Pour the lemon filling over the chilled graham cracker crust. Spread evenly with a spatula.
3. Chill the Bars: Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until set. For best results, let the bars chill overnight.
4. Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and garnish with powdered sugar or lemon slices, if desired.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries on top.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for the crust.
• For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the crust.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg