This no-bake lemon icebox pie is the perfect quick and refreshing dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and bright lemon flavor, it’s simple to make and requires no oven. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 6 simple ingredients.
- Completely no-bake, ready in minutes.
- Smooth, creamy, and tangy flavor.
- Great for make-ahead desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 (9″) graham cracker crust
- 8 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of two lemons
- Whipped cream
Directions
- Prepare the filling: Place the cream cheese into a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat until completely smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Mix in other ingredients: Add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue blending until the mixture is fully combined and silky smooth.
- Fill the crust: Pour the lemon filling into the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
- Chill: Cover the pie with the plastic lid that comes with the crust (or plastic wrap). Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pie to firm up.
- Garnish and serve: Once set, top the pie with dollops of whipped cream. Slice and serve chilled straight from the refrigerator.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Use room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest filling.
- Fat-free cream cheese creates a lighter, sherbet-like texture.
- Fresh lemon juice gives the brightest flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
- Make homemade graham cracker crust for an extra-special touch.
- Can be prepared up to 2 days in advance.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with thin lemon slices or extra zest for presentation.
- Pair with fresh berries for a fruity twist.
- Serve alongside iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing combo.
Storage/Reheating
FAQs
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for make-ahead desserts. Chill up to 2 days in advance.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, both work well. The flavor difference is minimal.
Can I freeze lemon icebox pie?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This no-bake lemon icebox pie is creamy, tangy, and delightfully simple. With just a few ingredients and no baking, it’s the ultimate fuss-free dessert for lemon lovers.


No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Bright, creamy, and tangy, this no-bake lemon icebox pie is the easiest refreshing dessert you’ll ever make—perfect for summer gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1 (9″) graham cracker crust
- 8 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of two lemons
- Whipped cream
Instructions
-
Prepare the filling: Place the cream cheese into a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat until completely smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
-
Mix in other ingredients: Add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue blending until the mixture is fully combined and silky smooth.
-
Fill the crust: Pour the lemon filling into the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
-
Chill: Cover the pie with the plastic lid that comes with the crust (or plastic wrap). Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pie to firm up.
-
Garnish and serve: Once set, top the pie with dollops of whipped cream. Slice and serve chilled straight from the refrigerator.
Notes
Using name-brand cream cheese and condensed milk often results in a smoother filling.
For fewer calories, substitute fat-free condensed milk and cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: lemon pie, no-bake dessert, icebox pie