Fresh, creamy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor, No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is the ultimate warm-weather treat. This simple yet elegant dessert layers a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious lemon cream filling and a sweet blueberry topping, creating a vibrant flavor combination that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Best of all, it comes together without ever turning on the oven.
Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a sweet ending to a summer meal, this dessert offers the ideal balance of tart and sweet. The lemon layer brings a zesty brightness, while the blueberries add a juicy, jam-like contrast that makes each bite irresistible. Since it’s chilled, this treat is as soothing as it is satisfying—especially on hot days.
No bake desserts are a lifesaver when time is short or the weather’s too warm for baking. With minimal prep, easy ingredients, and big flavor, this lemon blueberry dessert is a great go-to recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just need a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert, this one fits the bill every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Oven Required – Perfect for hot days or when you want a fuss-free dessert.
- Bright and Refreshing – The lemon-blueberry combo is tangy, sweet, and satisfying.
- Easy to Make Ahead – Chill it overnight and serve when you’re ready.
- Crowd-Pleasing – Light, colorful, and always a hit at parties.
- Simple Ingredients – No fancy tools or hard-to-find items needed.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers (for crust)
- Butter (melted)
- Cream cheese
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Lemon zest
- Blueberry pie filling or fresh blueberries
- Whipped topping or whipped cream
- Vanilla extract
- Sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
Variations
- Crust Alternatives: Use vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or a gluten-free graham cracker substitute.
- Fruit Swap: Try strawberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry topping.
- Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese and reduced-fat whipped topping.
- Individual Servings: Layer ingredients into mason jars or dessert cups for single-serve portions.
- Lemon Curd Layer: Add a layer of lemon curd between the filling and topping for more citrus punch.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press into the bottom of a baking dish and chill in the fridge to firm up.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Cream Filling
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Layer the Dessert
Spread the lemon cream mixture over the chilled crust. Smooth out the top.
Step 4: Add Blueberry Topping
Spoon blueberry pie filling (or fresh sweetened blueberries) evenly over the lemon layer.
Step 5: Chill
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Just before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping. Garnish with lemon zest or fresh blueberries if desired.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Soften cream cheese fully before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Chill for at least 4 hours for a firm set and easier slicing.
- If using fresh blueberries, cook briefly with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a saucy topping.
- Make sure the crust is packed tightly to prevent crumbling when sliced.
How to Serve
- Slice into squares and serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
- Garnish with lemon slices, mint leaves, or extra blueberries.
- Serve with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing pairing.
- Add a layer of whipped cream or extra lemon zest for added flair.
- Great as a brunch dessert, potluck contribution, or summer dinner finale.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep whipped topping separate until serving if storing long-term.
Freezing
Freeze the assembled dessert (without whipped topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
No reheating needed—this dessert is best enjoyed cold!
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch—just make sure it’s 100% juice.
2. What size pan should I use?
An 8×8 or 9×9-inch square dish works well. For thinner bars, use a 9×13-inch pan.
3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat gives the richest texture and best set.
4. Do I have to use blueberry pie filling?
No, you can use fresh or frozen blueberries cooked down with sugar and cornstarch.
5. Can I add a layer of whipped cream in the middle?
Absolutely—it adds lightness and creaminess between the layers.
6. Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free crust to make it so.
7. How far in advance can I make it?
Make it up to 2 days ahead—just keep it chilled and covered.
8. Can I make it in individual cups?
Yes! Mason jars or clear dessert cups are great for portioning.
9. What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat squares.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a 9×13-inch dish and double all ingredients.
Conclusion
No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is a bright, beautiful, and deliciously simple dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of creamy lemon filling, juicy blueberry topping, and a buttery crust, it’s the kind of treat that feels special without being complicated. Whether you make it for a party, a family gathering, or just because you’re craving something sweet and citrusy, this no-bake dessert will never disappoint. Chill, slice, serve—and enjoy every refreshing bite.
PrintNo Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fresh, creamy, and bursting with citrusy flavor, this No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is the perfect warm-weather treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious lemon cream filling, and juicy blueberry topping, it’s sweet, tangy, and totally irresistible. No oven required—just chill, slice, and enjoy!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
-
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
-
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Cream Layer:
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
-
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
-
1 tsp lemon zest
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
-
1 can (21 oz) blueberry pie filling (or see notes for fresh blueberry option)
-
Whipped topping or whipped cream (for garnish)
-
Additional lemon zest or fresh blueberries (optional garnish)
Instructions
-
Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9-inch dish. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling. -
Make the Lemon Cream Filling:
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined and silky. -
Assemble the Layers:
Spread the lemon cream mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. -
Add the Blueberry Topping:
Spoon the blueberry pie filling evenly over the lemon layer. -
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set. -
Serve:
Just before serving, top with whipped cream and optional lemon zest or fresh blueberries. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Blueberry Sauce from Scratch: Combine 2 cups blueberries, ¼ cup sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tbsp cornstarch in a saucepan. Simmer until thickened and glossy. Cool before layering.
For a lighter version, use light cream cheese and reduced-fat whipped topping.
Make individual servings in jars or cups for parties or picnics.
Don’t skip chilling—it helps the layers set properly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4+ hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: no bake dessert, lemon blueberry bars, summer dessert, easy no bake recipe