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The Best Creamy No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie

A thick slice of creamy, yellow lemon pie on a white plate, topped with whipped cream and lemon zest.

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Make this bright, zesty, and refreshing Lemon Icebox Pie. This no-bake recipe uses a simple graham cracker crust and a creamy lemon filling, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for warm weather or any gathering.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Chill the crust for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Make the filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture will thicken as the acid from the lemon reacts with the milk.
  3. Pour the lemon filling into the chilled graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
  4. Chill the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is completely set. This step is crucial for a firm, creamy texture.
  5. Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
  6. Spread or pipe the whipped cream topping over the set lemon filling just before serving.
  7. Garnish with extra lemon zest if desired. Slice and serve cold.

Notes

  • For an extra zesty flavor, use the zest of two lemons in the filling.
  • This is an excellent make-ahead dessert; you can prepare the entire pie, including the whipped topping, one day in advance.
  • If you prefer a baked crust, bake the crust at 350°F for 10 minutes before chilling.

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