Creamy, dreamy, and refreshingly zesty, this No Bake Lemon Pie is the ultimate chilled dessert that delivers citrusy brightness in every bite. It’s a silky-smooth pie made with just a handful of ingredients, all nestled into a buttery graham cracker crust. The perfect summer treat, this pie requires no oven time and minimal effort—perfect for keeping cool while satisfying your sweet tooth.

This pie is a crowd-pleaser at BBQs, potlucks, or anytime you want a dessert that looks fancy but is incredibly simple to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or just craving something sweet and lemony, this pie will brighten up your dessert table with a light and tangy twist.

Why You’ll Love This No Bake Lemon Pie

No oven needed: A great way to beat the heat while still enjoying a homemade dessert.
Make-ahead friendly: It sets beautifully in the fridge and can be made the night before.
Velvety texture: Thanks to cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk, it’s ultra-creamy.
Perfectly tangy: Fresh lemon juice gives it a zing that’s refreshing, not overpowering.

What Kind of Crust Should I Use?

A classic graham cracker crust is the go-to choice for this no bake lemon pie. Its buttery crunch pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or make your own with crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter. If you want to mix it up, try a vanilla wafer or shortbread cookie crust for extra flavor.

Ingredients for the No Bake Lemon Pie

Each component of this pie plays a role in creating the creamy, citrusy perfection you crave.

Graham Cracker Crust: Offers a buttery and slightly crunchy base that contrasts the creamy filling.
Cream Cheese: Adds richness and tang to the filling, balancing the sweetness.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Brings sweetness and a smooth texture to bind everything together.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Delivers the essential tartness and brightness in flavor.
Lemon Zest: Intensifies the citrus aroma and adds natural flavor depth.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors with warm, subtle notes.
Whipped Cream (for topping): Optional but adds a luscious finishing touch.

How To Make the No Bake Lemon Pie

Step 1: Make the Crust

Crush graham crackers until fine, then mix with melted butter and a touch of sugar. Press the mixture into a pie dish and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, followed by the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the filling is silky and lump-free.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Pour the lemon filling into the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Chill to Set

Cover and refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until firm. For best results, chill overnight.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with whipped cream and thin lemon slices just before serving. Slice and enjoy every citrusy bite!

How to Serve and Store No Bake Lemon Pie

This pie is best served cold, straight from the refrigerator. The refreshing flavor is perfect for warm days, and the creamy filling slices neatly when fully chilled.

Serves: 8 generous slices.

Storage: Keep any leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the pie (without whipped cream topping) for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

What to Serve With No Bake Lemon Pie?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a sweet and colorful contrast.

Iced Tea

Pair it with a cold glass of sweet tea or lemon iced tea for a Southern twist.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds extra creaminess and coolness.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

Keep the citrus theme going with a fizzy drink.

Shortbread Cookies

Serve alongside for extra buttery crunch.

Fresh Mint

Add a mint sprig on top for a refreshing touch and pop of green.

Berry Compote

Warm berry compote drizzled on top creates a lovely color and flavor pairing.

Want More Pie Ideas?

If you’re into chilled pies and creamy desserts, you’ll love these other flavorful favorites from Nora Nosh:

Magic Lemon Cobbler for a warm twist on lemony goodness.
Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie with a luscious chocolate base.
Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie for a nostalgic, nutty finish.
Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you’re craving a fruity-meets-decadent combo.
Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for individual servings of citrus bliss.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra zest or play with the crust? Maybe you tried a whipped topping twist?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Got questions? Ask away—we’re all here to help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

No Bake Lemon Pie

Author: Nora
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 slices
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for the ultimate quick and refreshing dessert? This No Bake Lemon Pie is a creamy, zesty treat that’s as easy as it is delicious. With a luscious lemon-infused filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, this easy recipe is a total win for warm days, last-minute guests, or just when you’re craving something sweet and citrusy. Perfect for summer parties, barbecues, or weeknight desserts. It’s one of those food ideas that checks all the boxes: no bake, minimal ingredients, big flavor! Whether you’re on the hunt for a quick breakfast pie (yes, we support dessert for breakfast!), easy dinner endings, or healthy snack-style indulgence, this pie fits in all the right ways.