This No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert is a refreshing treat that’s perfect for warm days. With creamy lemon goodness and sweet blueberries, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
I love how simple it is to prepare—just mix, layer, and chill! Plus, who can resist the zesty flavor of lemon paired with juicy berries? Yum! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the dessert’s crust. If you can’t find them, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies are great alternatives. You can even use almond flour for a nutty base!
Cream Cheese: It gives a creamy texture. Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter option. If you’re after a dairy-free choice, you can use a vegan cream cheese substitute.
Cool Whip/Whipped Cream: This adds lightness to the dessert. If you like, homemade whipped cream (just beat heavy cream) works excellently, or Greek yogurt can be a thicker alternative for a tangy taste.
Lemon Instant Pudding Mix: This is crucial for that lemon flavor. If it’s not available, you can substitute it with lemon curd mixed with a little cornstarch for thickness.
Blueberry Pie Filling: You could use fresh blueberries for a healthier twist or even another fruit filling like raspberry or strawberry, depending on your preference.
How Do I Make Sure My Layers Stay Neat When Assembling?
Creating clean layers can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll achieve that crisp look! Here’s how:
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the bottom of the dish to create a solid base. This helps hold everything together.
- When spreading layers, use a spatula and work gently. Starting from the center and moving outward can keep layers even without mixing them.
- For the lemon pudding layer, let it cool slightly before spreading. This slight cooling helps it set a bit more, making for easier layering.
- When adding the blueberry filling, spoon it gently over the lemon layer to prevent it from mixing in; a light touch is key.
Remember, patience pays off! Refrigerating before serving will further help everything set beautifully. Enjoy your dessert prep!
Delicious No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) tub cool whip, thawed (or whipped cream)
For the Lemon Pudding Layer:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (3.4 oz) package lemon instant pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
For the Top Layer:
- 1 cup blueberry pie filling (or fresh blueberries)
- Additional blueberries for garnish
- Crushed graham crackers for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 20 minutes of prep time and then needs to chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set properly. So, all in all, you’ll be enjoying this treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
Start off by mixing the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until it looks like wet sand. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create a nice layer for your crust. Once that’s done, set it aside and let’s move on!
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Use a mixer or a whisk to blend them together until it’s super smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in half of the cool whip or whipped cream, mixing until everything is well combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the crust you made earlier.
3. Create the Lemon Pudding Layer:
Now, let’s whisk up the lemon pudding mixture! In another bowl, mix the sour cream, lemon instant pudding mix, and milk until everything is nice and smooth and it thickens up a bit. Spread this lemony goodness over the cream cheese layer, making sure it’s even.
4. Add the Blueberry Layer:
Time for some blueberry fun! Spoon the blueberry pie filling over the lemon pudding layer, and gently spread it out to cover it evenly. This will add a beautiful burst of flavor!
5. Finish with Toppings and Chill:
Top off your dessert with the remaining cool whip (or whipped cream). For a little extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers over the top. Now, it’s time for the magic to happen: cover your dessert and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or ideally, overnight. This chilling time helps all the flavors meld together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, garnish with fresh blueberries for a lovely touch. Slice it up, and get ready to enjoy your refreshing No Bake Lemon Blueberry Dessert!
Happy baking! 🍋💙
Can I Use a Different Type of Crust?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different base, you can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers, Oreo cookies, or even digestive biscuits for a unique flavor. Just be sure to mix them with melted butter as instructed to form a sturdy crust.
Can I Replace the Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have a dairy-free requirement, you can use a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing. The flavor may be slightly different, but it should still create a delicious layer!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cover the surface with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Can I Use Fresh Blueberries Instead of Pie Filling?
Yes, fresh blueberries can be a great substitute! If using fresh berries, you might want to sweeten them slightly with sugar and let them sit for a few minutes to create some natural juices. This way, they’ll mimic the consistency and taste of the pie filling better.
