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The Best Creamy No-Bake Lemon Icebox Pie

A perfect slice of bright yellow lemon pie with a graham cracker crust, topped generously with swirls of whipped cream.

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Make this bright, zesty, and creamy lemon pie without turning on your oven. This no-bake recipe uses a simple graham cracker crust and sets perfectly in the refrigerator, making it a refreshing dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Chill the crust for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
  2. Make the creamy filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined. 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. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is firm. This chilling time is key for a perfect set.
  4. Prepare the topping: In a separate, chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
  5. Spread or pipe the whipped cream topping over the chilled lemon filling just before serving. Garnish with extra lemon zest if desired.

Notes

  • For an extra tangy flavor, use the zest of two lemons instead of one.
  • If you prefer a slightly firmer crust, you can bake the crust at 350°F for 8 minutes before chilling.
  • This pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert; prepare it the day before serving for the best texture.

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