These Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are the perfect no-bake dessert for lemon lovers! With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake-like middle layer, and a bright lemon topping, these bars are easy to make and even easier to devour. They’re light, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion—or just because!
Prep Time
- 20 minutes
Chill Time
- 4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time
- 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings
- 9–16 bars (depending on size)
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 graham crackers, finely crushed)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
For the Lemon Layer:
- 1 can (15 oz) lemon pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Thin lemon slices (for garnish)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand. The mixture should hold together when pressed between your fingers.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to smooth it out.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes , or until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let cool completely while you prepare the next layer.
Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until completely smooth and free of lumps.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and silky.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula, taking care not to deflate the mixture. Use a figure-eight motion to maintain the airy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, smoothing it out with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Carefully spread the lemon pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer, creating an even, vibrant yellow blanket.
Step 4: Chill to Perfection
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours , or ideally overnight. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the dessert out of the pan and transfer it to a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts, slice the dessert into bars (9 larger bars or 16 smaller ones).
- Garnish each bar with a dollop of whipped cream, a thin slice of lemon, and a light dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-worthy finish.
Expert Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Always let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour before mixing. Cold cream cheese will result in lumpy texture that’s hard to fix.
- Homemade Whipped Cream: For extra decadence, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Use this instead of store-bought whipped topping.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your lemon pie filling before assembling. If it’s too sweet, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance the flavors.
- Clean Cuts: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between slices for perfectly smooth edges.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add garnishes just before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Bar, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Lazy Day Lemon Cream Pie Bars are a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, all layered into one easy-to-make dessert. The buttery crust, rich cream cheese layer, and zesty lemon topping create a harmonious balance that’s refreshing and indulgent at the same time. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress.
Ready to make these dreamy lemon bars? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of citrusy bliss—it’s light, creamy, and absolutely irresistible!
