Easy Lemon Icebox Dessert Bars
If you’re looking for a quick, refreshing, and foolproof summer dessert, these Easy Lemon Icebox Dessert Bars are the answer. Made with a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky lemon cream filling, and a light whipped topping, this no-bake lemon dessert delivers bright citrus flavor with minimal effort.
Perfect for hot days, family gatherings, BBQs, or make-ahead entertaining, this classic icebox dessert chills beautifully and slices into irresistible creamy bars every time.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Icebox Dessert:
No-Bake Dessert Recipe No oven needed, keeping your kitchen cool in summer
Quick & Easy Simple ingredients and beginner-friendly steps
Make-Ahead Friendly Perfect for parties, potlucks, and holidays
Refreshing Lemon Flavor Sweet, tangy, and perfectly balanced
Crowd-Pleaser Loved by kids and adults alike
Versatile Dessert Great for picnics, birthdays, or weeknight treats
Ingredients:
Graham Cracker Crust
2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 14 sheets)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Creamy Lemon Filling
1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
2 tablespoons lemon zest (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
Whipped Topping
2 cups heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub whipped topping, thawed)
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extra lemon zest for garnish
Directions:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Place in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth and slightly thickened. The lemon juice will naturally thicken the mixture.
Pour the lemon filling over the chilled graham cracker crust. Spread evenly using a spatula.
In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently spread the whipped cream over the lemon layer. (If using store-bought whipped topping, simply spread it evenly on top.)
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results, until fully set and easy to slice.
Before serving, sprinkle with extra lemon zest if desired. Slice into bars and serve chilled for a cool, refreshing dessert.
Tip: For clean slices, wipe the knife between cuts and serve straight from the fridge.
Benefits of This Recipe:
Perfect summer dessert that’s light, cool, and refreshing
Minimal prep time with maximum flavor payoff
Make-ahead convenience saves time on busy days
Customizable add berries, swap crusts, or adjust sweetness
Beginner-friendly dessert with guaranteed results
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