Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that perfectly marries the bright and lively flavor of lemons with a creamy, delicious finish? The Lemon Dessert Recipe is an easy and delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while refreshing your palate. Say goodbye to complicated steps and hello to simplicity with this no-gelatin treat! This recipe is not only approachable for novice bakers but also provides seasoned bakers with a stunning dessert option that sure to impress any crowd.
Whether it’s a summer gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a casual family dinner, this Lemon Dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart. Picture buttery graham cracker crumbs giving way to a rich lemon curd layer, all topped with a luscious cream cheese blend. Every bite is a heavenly warmth and refreshing burst of citrus goodness, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for all occasions.
Now, as you dive into each step of this Lemon Dessert Recipe, you’ll find that the combination of creamy textures and zesty lemon flavors is not just delicious but also has health benefits. Lemons are high in vitamin C and have antioxidant properties that grant this dessert a delightful twist. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s create something beautiful that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Dessert Recipe
- It offers a delightful balance between sweet and tangy, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- The recipe is easy and does not require any gelatin, making it perfect for beginners.
- It features layers of different textures, from the crunchy crust to the creamy topped layer.
- It can be prepared ahead of time and chilled, making it an excellent option for gatherings.
- Rich in vitamin C, lemon provides health benefits alongside its refreshing taste.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start whipping up this Lemon Dessert, it’s essential to set the stage for a smooth cooking experience. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring they’re at room temperature, especially the cream cheese and eggs. You’ll want to use a 9×13 inch baking pan for this recipe, so have that ready too. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to ensure it’s hot enough once you’re ready to bake your delicious layers.
There are a few key tools that will make your process easier: a mixing bowl for your crust and cream cheese layers, a medium saucepan for the lemon curd, and a whisk for mixing everything smoothly. If you want to achieve that perfectly silky lemon curd, a fine mesh strainer will be beneficial to remove zest or any lumps. Having these items on hand will not only streamline your preparation but also make you feel more organized as you journey through this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the Lemon Curd Layer:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- <1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Create the Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Ensure they are combined well, and they should have a sandy texture that holds together when pressed. Gently press this mixture into the bottom of your greased 9×13 inch pan, creating an even layer. This is where that crunchy base begins! Once that’s done, pop it into the oven for about 10 minutes at 325°F (163°C). Don’t worry if it seems a bit warm after baking; it will cool down while you prepare the other layers.
Step 2: Whisk the Lemon Curd Layer
For this vibrant lemon layer, combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously, making sure the ingredients blend seamlessly together. This step is crucial; keep stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, usually taking around 5-7 minutes. Once it reaches that perfect consistency, add in cubed butter and continue stirring until melted. Afterward, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to eliminate any zest pieces—you want it smooth! Allow this lemony goodness to cool to room temperature before spooning it evenly over your prepared crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, blending well until incorporated. Next, add in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix just until they’re blended after each addition—don’t overmix; we want that rich, dense texture! Finally, gently fold in the sour cream for added creaminess. The cream cheese mixture should be luscious and creamy, ready to spread.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled lemon curd layer in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. If you want to elevate the presentation, spoon a little additional lemon curd on top of the cream cheese. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it together, creating beautiful marbled designs. Pop your assembled dessert back in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for around 35-40 minutes or until set. Let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it into the refrigerator (for at least 4 hours). This waiting period is essential for enhancing the flavors and setting the layers!
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding a meringue layer on top for a sweet, fluffy contrast to the creamy filling.
- Vegetables: You could experiment with a hint of finely grated zucchini or carrot in the crust for a different texture.
- Spices: A sprinkle of ground ginger or cardamom in the cream cheese layer adds an exotic twist.
Cooking Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Make sure to only use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice may not give the same vibrant taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled, garnished with fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor.
- Pair with whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top.
Tips
- Using room temperature ingredients will yield a smoother cream cheese layer, so plan ahead!
- Don’t rush the cooling process; chilling in the refrigerator is key for achieving firm layers.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 80 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Protein: 6 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice for this recipe?
While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemon juice truly enhances the flavor and gives the dessert its refreshing zing.
How should I store any leftovers?
Store leftover lemon dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze this lemon dessert?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dessert as the creamy layers may separate upon thawing.
What can I serve with this Lemon Dessert?
This dessert pairs well with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Conclusion
This Lemon Dessert Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the brightness of lemons while indulging in a creamy and sweet treat. Whether serving it at a birthday celebration, a summer barbecue, or just a casual family dinner, this easy-to-make dessert is bound to impress. The combination of textures from the crunchy crust, zesty lemon curd, and smooth cream cheese topping is heaven on a plate! We hope you give it a try and delight your loved ones with your culinary creation. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you come up with in the comments below!
Print
Lemon Dessert
- Total Time: 4 hours 80 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
A perfect blend of creamy and zesty lemon flavors in a no-gelatin dessert.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the Lemon Curd Layer:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
- For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- <1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Ensure they are combined well, and they should have a sandy texture that holds together when pressed. Gently press this mixture into the bottom of your greased 9×13 inch pan, creating an even layer. This is where that crunchy base begins! Once that’s done, pop it into the oven for about 10 minutes at 325°F (163°C). Don’t worry if it seems a bit warm after baking; it will cool down while you prepare the other layers.
- For this vibrant lemon layer, combine fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously, making sure the ingredients blend seamlessly together. This step is crucial; keep stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, usually taking around 5-7 minutes. Once it reaches that perfect consistency, add in cubed butter and continue stirring until melted. Afterward, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to eliminate any zest pieces—you want it smooth! Allow this lemony goodness to cool to room temperature before spooning it evenly over your prepared crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, blending well until incorporated. Next, add in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix just until they’re blended after each addition—don’t overmix; we want that rich, dense texture! Finally, gently fold in the sour cream for added creaminess. The cream cheese mixture should be luscious and creamy, ready to spread.
- Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled lemon curd layer in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. If you want to elevate the presentation, spoon a little additional lemon curd on top of the cream cheese. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it together, creating beautiful marbled designs. Pop your assembled dessert back in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for around 35-40 minutes or until set. Let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it into the refrigerator (for at least 4 hours). This waiting period is essential for enhancing the flavors and setting the layers!
Notes
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. Make sure to only use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice may not give the same vibrant taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 6 g