Are you craving a dessert that's incredibly easy to make, refreshingly tangy, and guaranteed to impress? Look no further than these mouthwatering No Bake Lemon Bars! Perfect for those sweltering summer days when turning on the oven feels like a nightmare, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a silky, bright lemon filling that melts in your mouth - all without ever touching a baking sheet!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of melted butter and mix thoroughly until all the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x9-inch (or similar size) baking dish to form an even crust. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to pack it down tightly.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, and the zest of 1 lemon. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- Once the lemon bars are set, remove them from the refrigerator. Use a sharp knife to cut them into 12 equal squares or rectangles.
- For serving, you can dust the top of the lemon bars with powdered sugar or garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious no-bake lemon bars as a refreshing dessert!
Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant, authentic flavor. Bottled juice works, but fresh-squeezed is always better!
- Make sure to press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly. Use the back of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to create a compact base.
- Chill the bars for at least 2 hours to ensure they set properly and develop the perfect texture.
- For a professional touch, use parchment paper in your baking dish for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Want extra zesty flavor? Add some lemon zest both in the filling and sprinkled on top before serving.
- Store these bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container - if they last that long!
- For a fun variation, try adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a drizzle of white chocolate on top.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
