No-Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert

If you’re craving a light, creamy, and fruity dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven, this No-Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is your answer. It strikes a delightful balance between tart and sweet, with the tanginess of fresh lemons and the rich, velvety texture of whipped cream and cream cheese. The layers of graham cracker crust, lemony cream, and juicy blueberries make this dessert feel indulgent while still being refreshingly bright.

What makes this dessert a standout is not just the flavor but also the ease with which it’s prepared. With no baking required, it’s perfect for summer days, busy holidays, or those times when you simply want a fuss-free recipe that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The blueberry topping adds a deep, fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with the lemon, creating a crowd-pleasing treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Whether you’re entertaining guests, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating yourself, this no-bake dessert delivers in every way. It’s creamy, fruity, and has just the right amount of crunch—all layered into one gorgeous dish that’s impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. No Oven Needed: Perfect for hot days or quick prep—just mix, layer, and chill.
2. Bright and Creamy Flavor: The citrusy lemon and rich cream cheese make a vibrant and luscious combo.
3. Beautiful Presentation: The blueberry topping and fresh fruit create a stunning layered effect.
4. Easy to Make Ahead: Ideal for parties or gatherings since it tastes even better after chilling.
5. Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the crust, filling, or topping based on what you have on hand.

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Ingredients

• Cream cheese
• Unsalted butter
• Graham cracker sheets or crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Kosher salt
• Cold heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Lemons
• Lemon or vanilla extract
• Blueberry pie filling
• Fresh blueberries

Variations

• Berry Swap: Replace blueberry pie filling with strawberry, raspberry, or cherry filling.
• Citrus Twist: Use lime or orange zest and juice instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
• Crust Alternatives: Try crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or ginger snaps.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and coconut whipped cream.
• Mini Versions: Assemble in small mason jars or dessert cups for individual servings.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin. Mix with granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a baking dish or pan to form an even layer. Chill while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Cream Filling

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and remaining salt until smooth. Add half the powdered sugar and continue beating until well combined. Add lemon zest, lemon juice from one lemon, and lemon or vanilla extract.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream with the remaining powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Dessert

Spread the lemon cream mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Spoon the blueberry pie filling over the top and gently spread into a layer.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Top with fresh blueberries and additional lemon zest, if desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and richness.
• Make sure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• For a firmer crust, press it tightly into the pan and chill for at least 30 minutes before adding the filling.
• Whip the cream until stiff peaks form to keep the filling light and airy.
• Chill thoroughly to help the layers firm up and slice cleanly.

How to Serve

Serve this dessert chilled, directly from the fridge. Use a sharp knife or offset spatula to cut neat squares or slices. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a cup of tea or iced coffee. For a special touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a mint leaf on top before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover the dessert with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and the texture will stay soft and creamy.

Freezing

Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. The texture may soften slightly, but the flavor remains intact.

Reheating

This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, store-bought crumbs save time and work just as well as crushed sheets.

2. Can I use frozen blueberries?

For the topping, use fresh for best presentation, but frozen (thawed) can work in the pie filling.

3. What size pan should I use?

An 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan works well. For thinner layers, use a larger rectangular dish.

4. How long does it need to chill?

At least 4 hours is ideal, but overnight chilling yields the best texture.

5. Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. It’s an excellent make-ahead dessert since the flavors deepen with time.

6. Is there a way to make it less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar in the filling to taste, especially if your pie filling is very sweet.

7. Can I add gelatin to firm up the filling?

It’s not necessary, but a small amount of dissolved gelatin can help if you prefer a firmer set.

8. Can I skip the pie filling and use only fresh fruit?

Yes, but the result will be lighter and less sweet. Consider macerating the fresh berries with a little sugar.

9. How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Chilling the crust before adding the filling helps maintain its texture.

10. Is this dessert gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookie crumbs to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

This No-Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is a perfect blend of creamy, tart, and sweet flavors layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for any occasion. Whether served at a summer cookout, brunch, or holiday dinner, it promises to refresh and delight with every spoonful. Prepare it ahead, chill, and enjoy a slice of effortless elegance.

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