Introduction
If you’re a fan of zesty, creamy, and refreshing desserts, this Homemade Lemon Dessert is going to be your new favorite! It’s a no-bake treat with layers of buttery biscuit crumbs, tangy lemon curd, and silky cream cheese mousse—perfect for any occasion.
This dessert is easy to make, light, and bursting with citrus flavor, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings, special occasions, or when you simply crave something sweet yet refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy No-Bake Dessert – No oven needed!
✔ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – Sweet, tangy, and creamy all in one.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for meal prep or parties.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your taste.
Ingredients for the Lemon Cream Dessert
For the Lemon Curd:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 125 ml (½ cup) fresh lemon juice
- 120 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
- 3 whole eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 120 g unsalted butter, cubed
For the Biscuit Base:
- 200 g biscuits (Digestive, Graham crackers, or Butter cookies)
For the Creamy Layer:
- 400 g cream cheese
- 180 g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon curd (from above)
- 500 ml (2 cups) heavy cream
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Make the Lemon Curd
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 3 whole eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 120 g sugar
- Add lemon zest and lemon juice, and mix until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter until fully melted.
- Transfer the curd to a container, cover with plastic wrap (directly on the surface), and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Base
- Using a food processor, blend 200 g biscuits into fine crumbs.
- Divide the crumbs evenly into individual dessert cups or a serving dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Layer
- In a bowl, beat together:
- 400 g cream cheese
- 180 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons of the cooled lemon curd
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Dessert
- Layer 1: Add a layer of biscuit crumbs at the bottom.
- Layer 2: Spoon a layer of lemon curd over the crumbs.
- Layer 3: Add a generous layer of cream cheese mixture.
- Layer 4: Top with more lemon curd for an extra citrusy kick.
Chilling & Serving
- Cover the desserts and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Garnish with lemon zest, crushed biscuits, or fresh berries before serving.
Tips for the Best Lemon Dessert
✔ Cook the Lemon Curd Slowly – Use low heat and stir constantly to prevent it from curdling.
✔ Let the Lemon Curd Cool – This helps it set properly before layering.
✔ Use Cold Heavy Cream – Cold cream whips faster and holds its shape better.
✔ Chill Before Serving – This helps the layers firm up and flavors to meld together.
Variations & Customizations
1. Make It a Lemon Cheesecake
- Use crushed Graham crackers + melted butter for a firmer crust.
- Set it in a springform pan for a no-bake cheesecake style dessert.
2. Add a Crunchy Topping
- Sprinkle toasted nuts, white chocolate shavings, or coconut flakes for texture.
3. Use Different Citrus Fruits
- Swap lemon for lime, orange, or grapefruit for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
🍋 With Fresh Berries – Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries complement the citrus flavor beautifully.
🍋 With a Cup of Tea – A perfect afternoon treat with hot tea or iced tea.
🍋 As a Party Dessert – Serve in mini cups for a beautiful and elegant presentation.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigeration:
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying.
Freezing:
- Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes
🔥 Chill Time: 2+ hours
🍽 Servings: 6-8
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~40g |
| Protein | ~5g |
| Fat | ~20g |
| Sugar | ~25g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! It’s best when chilled for at least 2 hours and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Can I use store-bought lemon curd?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought lemon curd works just fine.
3. Can I use a different type of biscuit?
Yes! You can use Graham crackers, butter cookies, shortbread, or digestive biscuits.
4. What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can place the biscuits in a ziplock bag and crush them using a rolling pin.
5. Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes! Use vegan cream cheese, coconut cream, and plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Conclusion
This Homemade Lemon Dessert is creamy, tangy, and refreshing, with the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus zing. It’s a no-bake dessert that’s simple to make yet incredibly elegant—ideal for any occasion!
Make it for your next gathering, and enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of homemade lemon goodness!