Bright, creamy, and refreshingly tart, this no-bake lemonade pie is the ultimate warm-weather dessert. With its buttery graham cracker crust, dreamy cream cheese filling, and zesty citrus flavor, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that comes together in minutes and chills to perfection. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a sweet summer evening!
📋 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 graham crackers, crushed)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter , melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese , softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup frozen lemonade concentrate , thawed
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra citrus punch)
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Lemon slices or curls
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs , sugar , and melted butter . Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish . Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it firmly.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk , mixing until fully combined and smooth.
- Stir in the thawed lemonade concentrate and lemon zest (if using). The lemonade concentrate provides the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the filling is light, airy, and evenly mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for a polished finish.
Step 4: Chill
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours , or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely. This step ensures a firm, sliceable texture.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, garnish the pie with a dollop of whipped cream and decorate with lemon slices or curls for an elegant touch.
- Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy the refreshing citrus zing in every bite!
Tips for Success
- Crust Texture: For a crunchier crust, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes before chilling. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.
- Lemon Zest Boost: Don’t skip the lemon zest if you love bold citrus flavors—it adds an extra layer of freshness.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Substitute store-bought whipped topping with homemade whipped cream by whipping 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Keep covered to prevent the crust from softening.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a no-fuss dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. The buttery graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy filling, while the optional whipped cream and lemon garnishes add a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or craving a cool, citrusy treat, this pie is sure to impress. Dive into this refreshing dessert and let it become your go-to recipe for sunny days!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
- Total Time: ~4 hours 15 minutes
🍽 Servings:
8 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~350 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and toppings)
