This No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is a refreshing treat! With layers of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, it’s perfect for a sunny day and super easy to whip up.
Plus, you don’t even need to turn on the oven! Just mix, layer, and chill. I love serving it at parties, and it always disappears quickly. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are essential for a sweet and sturdy crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use crushed digestives or vanilla wafers for a slightly different flavor.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture and richness. If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, vegan cream cheese works well as a substitute.
Whipped Topping: This adds fluffiness. If you prefer, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar instead of using store-bought whipped topping.
Lemon Curd: This is key for that tangy flavor. If you can’t find lemon curd, you can mix lemon juice, sugar, and cornstarch to make a quick alternative. Just cook it to thicken!
Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are best for that burst of flavor. Frozen ones can be used as a substitute but may release more juice; just let them thaw and pat dry first.
How Do I Ensure My Cream Cheese Mixture is Smooth?
Getting a smooth cream cheese layer is important for the texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps it blend easier without lumps.
- Beat the cream cheese before adding powdered sugar. This helps break it down.
- Add powdered sugar gradually while mixing, ensuring it’s well combined before folding in the whipped topping.
Taking the time to do this will give you a lovely creamy layer that complements the tangy lemon curd perfectly!
How to Make No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
For the Lemon Layer:
- 1 cup lemon curd
For the Blueberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup blueberry pie filling (optional)
- Additional whipped topping for garnish
- Crushed graham crackers for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 20 minutes to prepare, and then it needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you have that time) to set properly. It’s a great make-ahead treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan to form a nice, even crust. Then, pop it in the refrigerator while you work on the filling.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until it’s nice and smooth. Then gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until everything is blended together nicely. This will create a lovely creamy layer!
3. Assemble the Layers:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled crust in the pan. Then, pour the lemon curd over the cream cheese layer and take a moment to spread it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Add the Blueberries:
Now comes the fun part! Spoon the blueberry pie filling over the lemon curd if you’re using it. If you prefer fresh blueberries, sprinkle those on evenly instead for a fresh touch. You can arrange them however you like!
5. Top it Off:
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the blueberries to completely cover them. Smooth it out for an even look, and then sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top for that extra crunch. Add a few fresh blueberries on top for a beautiful garnish!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover your dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can. This time allows all the flavors to meld together and firm up nicely. When you’re ready, cut into squares and enjoy your refreshing No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert!
Can I Use Regular Sugar Instead of Powdered Sugar?
Yes, you can use regular granulated sugar in place of powdered sugar, but keep in mind that it may not blend as smoothly. If you do, it’s best to blend the granulated sugar in a blender or food processor first to make it fine, which will help it dissolve better in the cream cheese mixture.
How Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
To make this dessert gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. Many health food stores or the gluten-free section of your grocery store will have suitable options available!
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries?
Absolutely! You can use frozen blueberries instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before adding them to the dessert to avoid sogginess.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it seems too soft after a couple of days, give it a quick stir to refresh the layers before serving again.
