No bake lemon blueberry dessert topped with fresh blueberries and lemon zest.

No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert

by Erica

Creamy, tangy, and bursting with juicy blueberries, this No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is the kind of treat that makes summer feel like a warm hug. It layers a buttery graham cracker crust with fluffy lemon cream, a shine-y blueberry topping, and a cloud of whipped topping—no oven required and almost no fuss. Fun fact: many classic chilled desserts were invented to stay cool in hot kitchens before air conditioning existed, so this one is practically a historical act of comfort food rebellion.

If you love easy, crowd-pleasing desserts that come together in under an hour of hands-on time, you’ll want to try this version. For a slightly different texture, check out our take on the original no-bake idea with a similar flavor profile at no-bake lemon blueberry recipe. This dessert is family-friendly, quick to assemble, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple weeknight celebration. Get ready to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

What is No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert?

What’s in a name? This No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is exactly what it sounds like—a layered, chilled dessert that highlights fresh lemon flavor and sweet blueberry filling, all assembled without baking. Who named it? Maybe a lemon-loving baker who wanted summer in a dish—imagine squeezing lemons on a sunny porch while blueberries laugh in the background. Does it sound romantic? Perhaps that’s why people say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Why not test that theory with this bright, creamy treat? Try it and see whether it becomes your family’s new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This

Bright lemon and juicy blueberries make this dessert irresistible. The three main reasons you’ll fall for it:

  • Creamy, zesty center: The lemon mixture is silky and refreshingly tart, balanced by the sweetness of the graham crust and blueberry topping.
  • Cost-saving and simple: No special equipment or expensive ingredients—just pantry staples and a tub of whipped topping. Making it at home is far cheaper than buying a similar dessert at a bakery.
  • Layered flavor and texture: Crunchy graham crumbs, luscious lemon filling, glossy blueberries, and light whipped topping create a satisfying contrast in every bite.

If you enjoy creamy no-bake desserts, you might also love a richer, creamier option like our no-bake cannoli cream pie, which shares the same comforting ease but brings different flavors to the table. Ready to dig in? You’ll want to make this for family gatherings and summer potlucks.

How to Make

Quick Overview

This recipe is easy, delicious, and satisfying because it relies on straightforward mixing and layering rather than baking. The texture is creamy and slightly firm once chilled, while the blueberry topping provides a sweet, glossy finish. Standout element: the lemon pudding adds a silky, citrusy depth that makes every spoonful bright and memorable. Prep time is about 20 minutes, plus at least 2 hours chilling time.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3/4 cup butter, melted
  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1 cup 2% milk
  • 1 (3.4 oz) box instant lemon pudding mix
  • 1 (21 oz) can blueberry pie filling
  • 1 (16 oz) tub frozen whipped topping, thawed

Directions

  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Reserve 1/2 cup for topping and press the rest into a 13×9-inch dish. Chill. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat glass to press crumbs firmly and evenly into the dish; this helps the crust hold together when cutting.
  2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until fluffy. Use an electric hand mixer for 1–2 minutes on medium speed, scraping down the bowl once so the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
  3. Add lemon juice and milk; mix until smooth. Add pudding mix and beat until combined. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute after adding the pudding to avoid overbeating; the mixture should be silky.
  4. Drop lemon mixture by dollops onto crust and gently spread evenly. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the layer without mixing into the crust.
  5. Spread blueberry pie filling evenly over the lemon layer. Be gentle to keep the lemon layer intact; a rubber spatula works well.
  6. Top with whipped topping and sprinkle reserved crumbs over the top. Smooth into a uniform layer and finish with the reserved crumbs for a crunchy contrast.
  7. Chill at least 2 hours before serving. Store refrigerated. Chilling time is important—at least 2 hours, or overnight for cleaner slices.

No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert

What to Serve With

  • Fresh fruit salad: Serve a light medley of strawberries, kiwi, and melon to balance the richness.
  • Iced tea or lemonade: Keep the citrus theme going with fresh-squeezed lemonade or a lightly sweetened iced tea.
  • Mint garnish or lemon zest: A small herb salad or a sprig of mint on the plate adds a fresh aroma.
  • Coffee or dessert wine: A mild, not-too-bitter coffee or a light Moscato pairs nicely for an after-dinner treat.

Top Tips for Perfecting

  • Ingredient substitutions: Use reduced-fat cream cheese if you prefer, but full-fat gives the creamiest result. Swap blueberry pie filling for fresh blueberries tossed with a little sugar and cornstarch for a less sugary topping.
  • Timing adjustments: Chill longer—overnight is best for clean slices. If you’re short on time, freeze for 30 minutes to speed firming, but avoid freezing completely.
  • Flavor enhancements: Fold a teaspoon of lemon zest into the lemon mixture for extra brightness. Add a splash of vanilla to the cream cheese for depth.
  • Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t skip room-temperature cream cheese—cold cream cheese leads to lumps. Don’t overbeat the pudding into the cream mix; overmixing can make the texture gummy.
  • Presentation tip: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat slices.

Also, if you like sturdy, no-bake lemon treats, you’ll appreciate the simplicity of our lemon oatmeal no-bake cookies which offer similar bright citrus notes in a snackable form.

Storing and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Use plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent the whipped topping from drying out.
  • Freezing: This dessert is best enjoyed chilled rather than frozen. If you must freeze, cover tightly and freeze for up to 1 month, but expect some textural changes in the whipped topping and crust.
  • Shelf life details: For best quality, consume within 3–4 days refrigerated.
  • Reheating: No reheating necessary—serve straight from the fridge. If slices are too firm, let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for a softer texture.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
Yes. In fact, chilling overnight improves sliceability and lets flavors meld. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of canned pie filling?
Yes. Toss fresh blueberries with a tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon cornstarch, cook briefly until thickened, then cool before spreading for best results.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or a mix of almond flour and crushed gluten-free cookies to form the crust.

Can I make individual servings instead of a 13×9 pan?
Yes—assemble in small cups or jars for easy portioning. Layer the same components and chill until set.

What if my cream cheese is lumpy after beating?
Make sure it’s fully at room temperature before beating. If lumps remain, beat a bit longer on medium speed and scrape the bowl frequently, or press through a fine sieve for ultra-smooth texture.

Conclusion

This No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is a delightful, stress-free way to end any meal—bright, creamy, and loved by crowds. It’s simple enough for weeknights and elegant enough for special occasions, and it proves that great flavor doesn’t require a hot oven. For another perspective on this classic chilled treat, check out this detailed version at No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert | SweetOrdeal.com | 13 x 9. Give it a try, share it with friends, and enjoy every zesty, blueberry-studded bite.

No bake lemon blueberry dessert topped with fresh blueberries and lemon zest.

No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert

Creamy, tangy, and bursting with juicy blueberries, this No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is the kind of treat that makes summer feel like a warm hug.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • 13x9-inch Dish
  • Electric Hand Mixer

Ingredients
  

Crust

  • 3 cups Graham cracker crumbs
  • 3/4 cup Butter, melted

Filling

  • 2 packages Cream cheese, room temperature 8 oz each
  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 1/3 cup Lemon juice
  • 1 cup 2% milk
  • 1 box Instant lemon pudding mix 3.4 oz

Topping

  • 1 can Blueberry pie filling 21 oz
  • 1 tub Frozen whipped topping, thawed 16 oz

Instructions
 

  • Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Reserve 1/2 cup for topping and press the rest into a 13x9-inch dish. Chill.
  • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until fluffy. Use an electric hand mixer for 1–2 minutes on medium speed, scraping down the bowl once so the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
  • Add lemon juice and milk; mix until smooth. Add pudding mix and beat until combined. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute after adding the pudding to avoid overbeating; the mixture should be silky.
  • Drop lemon mixture by dollops onto crust and gently spread evenly. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the layer without mixing into the crust.
  • Spread blueberry pie filling evenly over the lemon layer. Be gentle to keep the lemon layer intact; a rubber spatula works well.
  • Top with whipped topping and sprinkle reserved crumbs over the top. Smooth into a uniform layer and finish with the reserved crumbs for a crunchy contrast.
  • Chill at least 2 hours before serving. Store refrigerated. Chilling time is important—at least 2 hours, or overnight for cleaner slices.

Notes

For best results, chill overnight for cleaner slices. Use fresh blueberries instead of canned pie filling if desired.
Keyword Easy, No-Bake
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