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When the summer heat is at its peak, the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven. That’s why this No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake is a lifesaver for those hot days when you crave a sweet treat without the extra heat. With its creamy texture and refreshing lemon flavor, this cheesecake is the perfect way to cool down and indulge in a delightful dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This no-bake lemon cheesecake is the ultimate summer dessert. You’ll love it because it’s:
- Quick and easy to make, requiring minimal cooking time.
- Light and refreshing, perfect for warm weather.
- Fun for kids to help make, turning dessert into a family activity.
- Perfectly portioned in mini mason jars, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mini mason jars or small serving bowls
Ingredients
- ½ cup graham crackers, crushed
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup + 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup lemon pie filling
- 1 lemon, sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine ½ cup of crushed graham crackers with sugar and melted butter in a bowl until well mixed. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until creamy. Add ½ cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is smooth.
- Begin assembling the cheesecakes by adding 2 generous tablespoons of lemon pie filling into each mason jar or serving bowl.
- Top the lemon filling with the cream cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the crushed graham cracker mixture on top of each serving.
- Chill the cheesecakes in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to allow them to set.
- Before serving, beat the remaining ½ cup of heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spoon the whipped cream on top of each cheesecake.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and serve chilled.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth texture.
- Chill the cheesecakes for at least 1 hour to allow them to set properly.
- Use fresh lemon slices for garnish to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding some lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for an extra citrusy kick.
- Experiment with different pie fillings like lime or raspberry for a twist on the original recipe.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of no-bake lemon cheesecake is approximately:
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecakes a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until serving.
What if I don’t have mason jars?
You can use any small glass or bowl for serving.
Can I use light cream cheese?
Yes, light cream cheese can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cool, creamy, and delicious dessert that doesn’t require turning on your oven, this No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake is the perfect choice. It’s easy to make, fun for the whole family, and sure to impress at any gathering. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations.
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