Go Back
–+ servings

No-Bake Lemon Bars

These refreshing no-bake lemon bars are a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a creamy filling and a crunchy crust, making them an ideal dessert for warm days.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs finely crushed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar for sweetness
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
For the Filling
  • 1 cup cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar to sweeten the filling
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2-3 lemons
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest freshly grated
  • 1 cup whipped topping thawed
For the Topping
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting
  • 1 lemon lemon slices for garnish, optional

Method
 

Prepare the Crust
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Mix well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.
  2. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. This will help the crust hold together.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking pan to create an even layer. Use the back of a measuring cup to pack it tightly.
  4. Place the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set while you prepare the filling.
Make the Filling
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This ensures there are no lumps.
  2. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until fully incorporated.
  3. Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing until combined. The acidity from the lemon juice will balance the sweetness.
  4. Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula until the mixture is smooth and light. This adds a fluffy texture to the filling.
Assemble the Bars
  1. Pour the lemon filling over the chilled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is firm and set.
Serve
  1. Once set, remove the bars from the refrigerator. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
  2. Cut into squares and garnish with lemon slices if desired. Serve chilled for the best flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh lemons for juice and zest. These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!