Description
This delightful No-Bake Lemon Cream Cheese Pie Cups recipe offers a creamy, tangy dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious lemon-infused cream cheese filling, topped with fresh berries and nuts, these individual servings are both elegant and refreshing.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup whipped cream or Cool Whip
Toppings
- Fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries)
- Mint leaves
- Lemon slices or additional lemon zest
- Chopped pistachios or toasted almonds
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bases of individual cups or small jars, creating an even, buttery layer.
- Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest while continuously mixing to achieve a creamy, tangy filling. Gently fold in whipped cream to lighten the mixture without deflating it.
- Assemble the Pie Cups: Spoon or pipe the lemon cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared crust in each cup. Smooth the tops with a spatula or the back of a spoon for a polished appearance.
- Chill and Set: Cover the cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up to an ideal consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, add toppings such as fresh mint leaves, berries, or lemon slices to enhance both presentation and flavor. Serve chilled for the best experience.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and richness.
- For a lighter option, substitute whipped cream with Cool Whip or a dairy-free alternative.
- Graham cracker crumbs can be homemade by crushing cookies if unavailable.
- Refrigerate for longer than 2 hours if you prefer a firmer filling.
- Toast nuts lightly to enhance their flavor before topping.
