No-Bake Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake: Keep your kitchen cool by preparing this dessert without baking.​
• Quick Preparation: With only about 15 minutes of active prep time, it’s a hassle-free option.​
• Make-Ahead: Prepare it a day in advance for any occasion, as it stores well in the refrigerator.​
• Crowd-Pleaser: The tangy-sweet flavor profile appeals to both kids and adults.​

Ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs​
• ⅓ cup sugar​
• ⅔ cup butter, melted​

Alternatively, use a pre-made 9-inch graham cracker crust to save time.

For the Creamy Lemonade Filling:

• 1 (5 oz) can evaporated milk​southernliving.com
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant lemon pudding mix​
• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened​
• ¾ cup frozen lemonade concentrate​

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.​
   • Press the mixture into a deep-dish pie plate, covering the bottom and sides evenly.​
   • For a homemade crust, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until set and golden. Allow it to cool completely. For a no-bake option, simply skip the baking step.​

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a bowl, whisk together evaporated milk and lemon pudding mix for 2 minutes until thickened.​
   • In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until fluffy, about 3 minutes.​
   • Gradually add frozen lemonade concentrate and the pudding mixture to the cream cheese, beating until well combined.​
   • Spoon the filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.​

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 8 servings​
• Prep Time: 15 minutes​
• Chill Time: At least 4 hours​
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes​

Variations

• Mixed Berry Lemonade Pie: Incorporate fresh or frozen mixed berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries by blending them into the lemonade concentrate before mixing it with the other filling ingredients, or layer them over the crust before adding the lemonade filling.​
• Limeade Pie: Replace lemonade concentrate with limeade concentrate for a tangy lime flavor. Garnish with lime slices or zest for an extra citrus kick.​
• Mango Lemonade Pie: Blend mango puree with the lemonade concentrate for a tropical twist.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 5 days.​
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy texture may become grainy, and water may separate upon defrosting.​

FAQs

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust or opt for a cookie crust made from crushed Oreos or vanilla wafers.​

How can I make the pie more tangy?

Increase the amount of lemonade concentrate slightly or add lemon zest to the filling for an extra citrus punch.​

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

Evaporated milk provides a creamier texture, but you can substitute it with regular milk if necessary.​

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Ensure the crust is baked and cooled completely before adding the filling.​

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of lemonade concentrate?

Lemonade concentrate provides sweetness and flavor balance. If using fresh lemon juice, adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.​

Is it necessary to refrigerate the pie?

Yes, refrigeration is essential for setting the pie and ensuring food safety.​

Can I make individual servings?

Yes, you can prepare this pie in individual tart pans or dessert cups for single servings.​

How long can the pie sit out at room temperature?

It’s best to limit room temperature exposure to no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.​

Can I add whipped cream on top?

Yes, topping the pie with whipped cream adds a light, airy finish.​

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.​

Conclusion

No-Bake Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie offers a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors with a creamy texture, all without the need for baking. Its simple preparation and refreshing taste make it a perfect dessert for any occasion.​