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Lemon Dessert Recipe: Easy, No-Gelatin Treats

Dive into the zesty world of lemon desserts with this easy-to-followLemon Dessert Recipe. Perfect for those who adore the refreshing tang of lemon paired with a creamy texture, thisLemon Dessert Recipeis a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this guide will help you create a no-gelatin, utterly deliciousLemon Dessert Recipethat combines a crunchy crust, a zesty lemon curd layer, and a smooth cream cheese topping into one irresistible dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cupsgraham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cupgranulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoonsunsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cupfresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoonslemon zest
  • 1 cupgranulated sugar
  • 4large eggs
  • 1/2 cupunsalted butter, cubed
  • 4(8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cupgranulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoonvanilla extract
  • 4large eggs
  • 1/4 cupsour cream

Instructions

  1. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
  2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch pan.
  3. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly.
  4. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, 1 cup sugar, and eggs.
  5. Add cubed butter and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
  6. Strain through a fine mesh to remove any zest pieces, then let cool to room temperature.
  7. Spoon the cooled lemon curd over the prepared crust, spreading evenly.
  8. Beat the cream cheese with 1 cup sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
  9. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.
  10. Stir in sour cream.
  11. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the lemon curd layer in the pan.
  12. Spoon a little more lemon curd over the cream cheese layer and use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl.
  13. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until set.
  14. Cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars or squares.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or zest for an extra pop of color and taste.
Storage:Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations:For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
Lemon Curd:Making lemon curd might seem daunting, but it’s quite simple. The key is constant stirring to prevent it from curdling.