--- title: Lemon Dessert Recipe: Easy, No-Gelatin Treats url: https://optimalrecipes.com/lemon-dessert-recipe-easy-no-gelatin-treats/ author: Maria Jannet published: 2024-03-28 updated: 2024-03-28 image: https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/434100533_726057179697422_627457326924859240_n.webp categories: ["Breakfast"] site: Optimal Recipes --- # Lemon Dessert Recipe: Easy, No-Gelatin Treats > Dive into the zesty world of lemon desserts with this easy-to-follow Lemon Dessert Recipe. Perfect for those who adore the refreshing tang of lemon paired with a creamy texture, this Lemon Dessert Recipe is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen,... ![Lemon Dessert Recipe: Easy, No-Gelatin Treats](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/434100533_726057179697422_627457326924859240_n.webp) ## Article Dive into the zesty world of lemon desserts with this easy-to-follow **Lemon Dessert Recipe**. Perfect for those who adore the refreshing tang of lemon paired with a creamy texture, this **Lemon Dessert Recipe** is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this guide will help you create a no-gelatin, utterly delicious **Lemon Dessert Recipe** that combines a crunchy crust, a zesty lemon curd layer, and a smooth cream cheese topping into one irresistible dish. **Prep Time:** 20 minutes | **Cooking Time:** 45 minutes |  **Kcal:** 390 kcal | **Servings:** 12 ### Ingredients: #### For the Crust: - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted #### F or the Lemon Curd Layer: - 1 cup fresh lemon juice - 2 teaspoons lemon zest - 1 cup granulated sugar - 4 large eggs - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed #### For the Cream Cheese Layer: - 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 4 large eggs - 1/4 cup sour cream ### Directions: #### Prepare the Crust: - Mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until well combined. - Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch pan. - Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly. #### Make the Lemon Curd Layer: - In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, 1 cup sugar, and eggs. - Add cubed butter and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). - Strain through a fine mesh to remove any zest pieces, then let cool to room temperature. - Spoon the cooled lemon curd over the prepared crust, spreading evenly. #### Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: - Beat the cream cheese with 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. - Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended after each addition. - Stir in sour cream. #### Assembly and Baking: - Pour the cream cheese mixture over the lemon curd layer in the pan. - Spoon a little more lemon curd over the cream cheese layer and use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl. - Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until set. - Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars or squares. ### Notes: - Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or zest for an extra pop of color and taste. - Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. - Variations: For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. - Lemon Curd: Making lemon curd might seem daunting, but it’s quite simple. The key is constant stirring to prevent it from curdling. ### Nutritional Breakdown (per serving): - Calories: 390 kcal - Carbohydrates: 39g - Protein: 6g - Fat: 24g - Saturated Fat: 14g - Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g - Monounsaturated Fat: 7g - Trans Fat: 0.5g - Cholesterol: 165mg - Sodium: 220mg - Potassium: 125mg - Fiber: 0g - Sugar: 29g - Vitamin A: 950IU - Vitamin C: 8mg - Calcium: 60mg - Iron: 1.2mg This dessert is rich in Vitamin A and C, providing antioxidants that are beneficial for your skin and immune system. The presence of calcium and iron supports bone health and energy levels, making it a delicious yet somewhat nutritious treat. ### FAQs: **1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?** Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use bottled in a pinch. Just be aware that the taste might not be as vibrant. **2. How do I know when the lemon curd is done cooking?** The lemon curd is done when it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. If you draw a line through it with your finger, the line should hold. **3. Can this dessert be frozen?** Yes, it can be frozen for up to a month. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. **4. Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?** Absolutely! Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with your favorite gluten-free biscuit crumbs to make a gluten-free version of this dessert. Enjoy crafting this lemony delight that promises a balance of tangy and sweet flavors, perfect for any dessert lover looking for a refreshing treat. clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon ![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/434100533_726057179697422_627457326924859240_n.webp) ## Lemon Dessert Recipe: Easy, No-Gelatin Treats No reviews - Author: Maria [Print Recipe](#) [Pin Recipe](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=%23) ### Description Dive into the zesty world of lemon desserts with this easy-to-follow **Lemon Dessert Recipe**. Perfect for those who adore the refreshing tang of lemon paired with a creamy texture, this **Lemon Dessert Recipe** is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this guide will help you create a no-gelatin, utterly delicious **Lemon Dessert Recipe** that combines a crunchy crust, a zesty lemon curd layer, and a smooth cream cheese topping into one irresistible dish. ### Ingredients Scale 1x2x3x #### For the Crust: - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted #### For the Lemon Curd Layer: - 1 cup fresh lemon juice - 2 teaspoons lemon zest - 1 cup granulated sugar - 4 large eggs - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed #### For the Cream Cheese Layer: - 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 4 large eggs - 1/4 cup sour cream ### Instructions #### Prepare the Crust: - Mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until well combined. - Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch pan. - Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly. #### Make the Lemon Curd Layer: - In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, 1 cup sugar, and eggs. - Add cubed butter and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). - Strain through a fine mesh to remove any zest pieces, then let cool to room temperature. - Spoon the cooled lemon curd over the prepared crust, spreading evenly. #### Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: - Beat the cream cheese with 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. - Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended after each addition. - Stir in sour cream. #### Assembly and Baking: - Pour the cream cheese mixture over the lemon curd layer in the pan. - Spoon a little more lemon curd over the cream cheese layer and use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl. - Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until set. - Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars or squares. ### Notes - Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or zest for an extra pop of color and taste. - Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. - Variations: For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. - Lemon Curd: Making lemon curd might seem daunting, but it’s quite simple. The key is constant stirring to prevent it from curdling. ### Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made! window.trCommon={"minRating":6,"ajaxurl":"https:\/\/optimalrecipes.com\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php","ratingNonce":"","postId":0}; --- **Source**: [Lemon Dessert Recipe: Easy, No-Gelatin Treats](https://optimalrecipes.com/lemon-dessert-recipe-easy-no-gelatin-treats/) **Site**: Optimal Recipes - https://optimalrecipes.com/ **Author**: Maria Jannet *If you cite this recipe, please link to: https://optimalrecipes.com/lemon-dessert-recipe-easy-no-gelatin-treats/*