Imagine a dessert so refreshing, so effortlessly delicious, that it requires zero oven time and delivers maximum flavor in just minutes. These No Bake Lemon Icebox Bars are your ticket to a cool, tangy paradise that will transform your summer gatherings from ordinary to extraordinary. With a buttery graham cracker base and a silky smooth lemon filling, this dessert is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen - no baking skills required!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 9 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Transfer the graham cracker mixture into the prepared pan, pressing firmly and evenly across the bottom to create a compact crust using the back of a measuring cup or spatula.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the lemon mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, ensuring complete and uniform coverage.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the filling to set completely and develop a firm texture.
- Once chilled and set, lift the bars out of the pan using the overhanging parchment paper and transfer to a cutting board.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve for an elegant finishing touch.
- Cut into 9 equal squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for neat edges.
- Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor - bottled juice just can't compare.
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to ensure a stable base for your bars.
- For ultra-clean cuts, run your knife under hot water and dry between each slice.
- Chill the bars for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the perfect set.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain the bars' texture and freshness.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh lemon zest or thin lemon slices before serving.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the powdered sugar topping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 260kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 33mg
