Imagine biting into a slice of Easy Lemon Cream Pie: the tangy brightness of real lemon, the dreamy creaminess of a perfectly whipped filling, and the irresistible crunch of a graham cracker crust. This pie delivers summer in every bite, bursting with citrusy freshness and lush texture—yet it’s a total breeze to make, no oven required. Whether you need a fuss-free holiday dessert or a touch of sunshine at your next potluck, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.

Easy Lemon Cream Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s start with the stars of the show! Every ingredient in Easy Lemon Cream Pie has a crucial role—nothing fussy, but each one brings something special to the party, from sweet richness to tart vibrance and melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Graham cracker crust: This classic base brings sweet, toasty crunch to every slice; buy pre-made or make your own for extra flair!
Sweetened condensed milk: Adds luscious sweetness and silkiness that perfectly balances the tart lemon.
Fresh lemon juice: The real-deal citrus flavor—fresh juice gives unbeatable brightness compared to bottled alternatives.
Lemon zest: Tiny flecks of fragrant zest guarantee every bite packs a zippy citrus punch.
Cream cheese (softened): Softening ensures easy blending for a velvety, tangy base that’s never lumpy.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipping this adds luxurious lightness, turning your filling from heavy to heavenly.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream topping and helps it hold beautiful peaks.
Lemon slices & extra zest (optional): For those finishing touches that make your Easy Lemon Cream Pie as gorgeous as it is delicious.

How to Make Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Step 1: Cream the Cheese

Begin with a big bowl and beat your softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. Patience pays off here—a well-beaten base means your pie filling will be silky and cloud-like.

Step 2: Add the Citrus & Sweetness

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and bright lemon zest. Beat everything together until completely smooth and combined, so your filling is speckled with zest and smells like lemon heaven.

Step 3: Fill the Crust

Spoon the lemony filling straight into your graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure the filling reaches every edge for a perfectly even slice later on!

Step 4: Whip Up the Cream

In a separate bowl, add the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Whip with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This fresh, sweet cream is your decadent topping and a beautiful contrast to the zesty filling.

Step 5: Top and Chill

Spread or pipe the whipped cream generously over the pie—don’t hold back! Transfer your Easy Lemon Cream Pie to the fridge and let it chill for at least 4 hours. This (really!) is the hardest part; chilling is what creates that trademark sliceable texture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, add lemon slices or an extra sprinkling of zest for a show-stopping finish. Call your friends and dive in!

How to Serve Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Garnishes

This pie truly shines when it’s crowned with a few thin lemon wheels, a twirl of extra whipped cream, or a flurry of lemon zest. Fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, add color and a tart-sweet pairing that makes each slice feel extra special.

Side Dishes

Create a dessert spread with light, fruity options—think mixed berry salad, fresh mint, or crisp butter cookies. Since Easy Lemon Cream Pie is bright and rich, pairing it with something fresh keeps things lively and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, try making individual Easy Lemon Cream Pie parfaits in small glasses for a charming handheld treat. Or serve slices on vintage china with edible flowers for a garden-party vibe that makes your pie the talk of the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pie keeps beautifully! Cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The crust stays crisp and the cream stays thick, so every leftover slice still feels like a treat.

Freezing

Want to get ahead? You can freeze Easy Lemon Cream Pie (without the whipped cream topping) for up to one month. Just wrap tightly in plastic, then foil, and thaw in the fridge overnight before adding fresh whipped cream and garnishes.

Reheating

No need to reheat—this pie is served chilled for maximum refreshment. If your Easy Lemon Cream Pie is frozen, simply allow it to thaw in the fridge, then top and serve cold for best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice really makes a huge difference in both flavor and aroma. If you’re in a pinch, bottled can work—but the pie will taste brightest with the real thing.

What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?

Cut the cream cheese into cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or use the microwave on low power for 10-second intervals until just soft (but not melted).

Can I make Easy Lemon Cream Pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just grab a gluten-free graham cracker crust (many stores carry them now), or make your own with gluten-free graham crackers and melted butter.

How do I know when the pie has set?

You’ll know your pie is ready when the filling is firm and holds its shape when cut. Chilling for at least 4 hours is key, but letting it rest overnight will create perfectly neat slices, too.

Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Definitely—try a swirl of raspberry puree, a touch of vanilla, or mix in a bit of orange zest for a citrusy twist. Easy Lemon Cream Pie is super adaptable to your creative whims!

Final Thoughts

If you love simple desserts that wow your taste buds and your guests, Easy Lemon Cream Pie is calling your name! It’s fast, fabulously creamy, and bright as a ray of sunshine. Give it a go, and don’t be surprised if this easy, zesty treat becomes your signature summer dessert.

Easy Lemon Cream Pie Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Lemon Cream Pie is a refreshing and tangy dessert that requires no baking. With a creamy lemon filling and a fluffy whipped cream topping, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 9-inch graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)

Lemon Filling:

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar

Garnish:

lemon slices and extra zest for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat until well combined and smooth.

Fill the Crust: Pour the lemon filling into the graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the lemon filling.