Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a refreshing, no-bake dessert that combines a tangy lemonade flavor with the creamy richness of a cheesecake filling, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or a light, satisfying treat any time of year, this pie is both simple and irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie offers a cool, creamy texture with the bright, tart flavor of lemonade. It is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring no oven time, and uses simple, accessible ingredients. The combination of a sweet graham cracker crust and a rich, citrus-infused filling makes this pie a perfect choice for cookouts, picnics, holidays, or when you simply need a quick, refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
(Note: Typically, additional ingredients for the filling would include cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, frozen lemonade concentrate, and whipped topping.)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
- Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until fully incorporated.
- Stir in frozen lemonade concentrate until well combined.
- Gently fold in whipped topping until the filling is light and fluffy.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Slice and serve chilled, optionally garnished with lemon slices or whipped cream.
Servings and timing
This Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie serves approximately 8 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time.
Variations
- Berry Lemonade Pie: Fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Key Lime Version: Substitute frozen lemonade concentrate with frozen limeade concentrate for a tart, key lime flavor.
- Graham Cracker Alternative: Use a vanilla wafer or gingersnap crust for a different flavor profile.
- Coconut Topping: Sprinkle toasted coconut over the top for a tropical touch.
- Mini Pies: Make individual pies using a muffin tin and liners for easy serving at parties.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This pie is best served chilled and does not require reheating. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?
Yes, a store-bought crust works perfectly and saves even more time.
How do I soften cream cheese quickly?
Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it in 10-second intervals until softened.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert and can be prepared a day in advance.
What can I use instead of frozen lemonade concentrate?
You can use fresh lemon juice and zest, adjusting the sugar to taste, but frozen concentrate gives a stronger lemon flavor.
Is it necessary to fold in whipped topping?
Yes, folding keeps the filling light and airy rather than dense.
Can I make this pie without condensed milk?
Condensed milk is key to achieving the creamy, sweet consistency; alternatives would significantly change the texture.
How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?
Press the crust mixture firmly into the pie dish and refrigerate it before filling to help it hold together.
Can I use lemon curd instead of lemonade concentrate?
Lemon curd can be used for a richer, slightly different lemon flavor.
How do I slice the pie neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry before each slice.
What toppings go well with this pie?
Fresh berries, lemon zest, whipped cream, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar complement the pie beautifully.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a bright, creamy dessert that captures the essence of sunny days and sweet indulgence. Quick to prepare and delightful to serve, it brings a burst of refreshing lemon flavor in every bite. Whether you are entertaining guests or treating yourself, this easy, no-bake pie is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Print
Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 8 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a refreshing, no-bake dessert bursting with sweet-tart lemon flavor! Made with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy lemon filling, and a hint of tangy cream cheese, it’s the perfect easy summer treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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3/4 cup frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
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1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
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Stir in melted butter until evenly coated.
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Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Chill while preparing the filling.
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In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
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Add the sweetened condensed milk and lemonade concentrate, mixing until creamy and well combined.
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Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
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Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
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Garnish with lemon slices or extra whipped cream before serving, if desired.
Notes
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For a stronger lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
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Make mini pies using a muffin tin and cupcake liners!
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Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
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Very good https://rb.gy/4gq2o4
Very good https://rb.gy/4gq2o4