Lemon Icebox Pie Recipe: A Refreshing No-Bake Dessert

Lemon Icebox Pie is the perfect dessert for warm weather or when you’re looking for a refreshing treat without the hassle of baking. This no-bake pie combines the tangy, bright flavor of fresh lemons with a smooth, creamy filling. The crunchy graham cracker crust adds the perfect contrast to the silky filling, making each bite a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, Lemon Icebox Pie is a timeless classic that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients for Lemon Icebox Pie:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for sweetening the whipped cream)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Whipped cream
• Lemon slices or zest

Instructions for Lemon Icebox Pie:

Preparing the Crust:

1. Make the Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter, and the mixture holds together when pressed.
2. Press into Pie Dish: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact the crust firmly.
3. Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling. This will help the crust set and firm up.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer on medium speed. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure an even consistency.
2. Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk: Add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese and continue to beat until fully combined.
3. Add the Lemon Juice and Zest: Pour in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Beat again until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The lemon juice adds the perfect tang, while the zest enhances the lemon flavor.
4. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar (if using) until stiff peaks form. This step is key to achieving a light, airy filling. Once whipped, gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until well combined.

Assembling the Pie:

1. Fill the Crust: Once the graham cracker crust is chilled, spoon the lemon filling into the crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula, smoothing the top to create a neat, even surface.
2. Chill the Pie: Place the pie back in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set properly. The longer the pie chills, the firmer the filling will become.

Garnishing and Serving:

1. Add Whipped Cream and Lemon Garnish: Before serving, top the pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with additional lemon slices or zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor and visual appeal.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. The cool, creamy filling paired with the crunchy crust will make this dessert a standout at any occasion.

Tips for Success:

• Fresh Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Fresh lemons offer a bright, tangy taste that can’t be beat.
• Chill the Pie Well: For a clean slice, be sure to let the pie chill for several hours to ensure the filling sets properly. It’s well worth the wait!
• Customize the Crust: While graham crackers are traditional, you can also use other cookies like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies for a different twist on the crust.
• Whipped Cream: If you prefer a lighter pie, you can skip the whipped cream in the filling, but it adds a nice fluffiness and smooth texture.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Icebox Pie:

Lemon Icebox Pie is the epitome of easy, refreshing desserts. With its cool, creamy texture and tangy lemon flavor, it’s a dessert that is both satisfying and light, making it perfect for warm weather or any time you’re craving something citrusy and sweet. The best part? It’s completely no-bake, so it’s a breeze to make and can be prepared ahead of time.

Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, enjoying a quiet family dinner, or preparing a treat for a special occasion, Lemon Icebox Pie will surely be a crowd favorite. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the fresh, vibrant lemon flavor makes this pie a must-try recipe for anyone who loves citrus desserts.

Try this easy recipe the next time you’re looking for a refreshing and delightful dessert!

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