Lemon Cream Pie
This Lemon Cream Pie is light, creamy, and bursting with citrusy brightness. Featuring a crisp vanilla wafer crust, silky lemon cream filling, and a cloud of homemade whipped topping, it’s a refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion—from spring brunches to summer picnics.
Prep Time20 minutes mins
Cook Time6 minutes mins
Total Time26 minutes mins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: creamy lemon dessert, lemon cream pie, no-bake lemon pie, vanilla wafer crust
Servings: 16
Calories: 448kcal
For the Vanilla Wafer Crust:
- 60 Nilla Wafers
- 1/3 cup butter melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
For the Lemon Cream Filling:
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 12 ounces cream cheese softened
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- Optional 4 drops yellow food coloring
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Make the Vanilla Wafer Crust:
a. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
b. Crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs using a food processor.
c. In a small bowl, combine the crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
d. Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie pan.
e. Bake for 6–8 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before filling.
Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling:
a. In a small mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream for about 2 minutes.
b. Add powdered sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
c. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
d. Add food coloring if using.
e. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until fully combined.
f. Pour into the chilled crust and spread evenly.
Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
a. In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
b. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the filled pie.
Make ahead: Can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated.
Crust alternative: Substitute graham cracker crust if desired.
Serving tip: Garnish with lemon zest or slices for extra flair.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.