Description
This Lemon Lasagna is a no-bake, creamy, and refreshing dessert featuring layers of graham cracker crust, lemon cream cheese filling, instant lemon pudding, and whipped topping. Perfect for warm weather or any time you want a light citrus treat, it sets in the refrigerator, blending tangy lemon flavors with sweet, fluffy textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Lemon Cream Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip or similar)
Pudding Layer
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant lemon pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Topping and Garnish
- Additional lemon zest
- Whipped cream
- Fresh mint or lemon slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the layers.
- Prepare the Lemon Cream Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the lemon juice and zest and mix until well incorporated. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer: In another bowl, whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens (about 2 minutes). Once thickened, set aside.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread the lemon cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Next, pour the lemon pudding layer over the cream cheese layer and spread it out evenly.
- Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer to create a smooth top layer.
- Chill and Set: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to firm up and the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with additional lemon zest, fresh whipped cream, or lemon slices for a decorative touch.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping to achieve a rich and creamy texture.
- You can prepare the dessert a day in advance; chilling overnight enhances the flavors.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the brightest lemon flavor.
- Serve chilled; keep refrigerated until serving to maintain firmness.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers.
