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easy no bake pie

Oh my goodness, you guys! I’ve been keeping a little secret from you all, and it’s high time I spill the beans (or should I say, the berries?). This easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a stressful day. It’s the kind of dessert that makes everyone who tries it ask, “How did you do this?!” and the answer is always, “It’s surprisingly simple!” My kids practically beg for this when the weather starts to warm up, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s got that perfect balance of bright, zesty lemon and sweet, juicy blueberries, all nestled in a delightfully creamy filling that just melts in your mouth. Forget spending hours in a hot kitchen; this stunner comes together so fast, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with fussy baked pies on a warm afternoon. It’s my go-to when I need something impressive but don’t have a ton of time, and it always, always gets rave reviews. Seriously, if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as delicious as it is easy, you’ve found your match. This is the recipe I reach for when I’m craving something sweet and refreshing but don’t want the fuss of turning on the oven. It’s my personal shortcut to dessert heaven, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

What is the recipe for Lemon Blueberry Pie?

So, what exactly is this magical concoction? Think of it as sunshine and happiness in a pie crust, minus the oven! This easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie is essentially a luscious, creamy filling bursting with vibrant lemon flavor and plump blueberries, all set in a simple, buttery crust. There’s no baking involved at all, which is a lifesaver during those sweltering summer months or when you’re just plain tired after a long day. It’s a chilled dessert that delivers a wonderfully refreshing taste. The “no-bake” aspect is the real star here, meaning you can whip it up with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. It’s essentially a delightful symphony of textures and tastes – a crisp, slightly sweet crust, a smooth, tangy lemon filling, and pops of sweet-tart blueberries. It’s the perfect example of how simple ingredients and a bit of chilling magic can create something truly spectacular. It’s the kind of dessert that looks elegant but is actually incredibly forgiving and straightforward to make, perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

How do I make a no bake lemon blueberry pie?

Quick Overview

This easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie is all about combining a few simple ingredients into a luscious filling, swirling in some fresh fruit, and letting the refrigerator do the hard work. You’ll quickly whip up a buttery graham cracker crust, then mix up a creamy, tangy lemon filling. Fresh blueberries are gently folded in, and then it all chills until firm and utterly delicious. It’s a foolproof method that guarantees a delightful dessert without any oven time. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can go from pantry staples to a show-stopping pie!

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:
This is the foundation, and it’s super simple! I always use good quality graham crackers – the flavor really comes through. You’ll need about 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs (that’s roughly 10-12 full graham crackers, depending on their thickness). Make sure they’re finely ground; a food processor works wonders, but you can also crush them in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin. For the binder, we’ve got ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted. And for a touch of sweetness and flavor, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. A pinch of salt, about ¼ teaspoon, just wakes up all those flavors!

For the Creamy Lemon Filling:
This is where the magic happens! You’ll need one 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened to room temperature. This is crucial for a super smooth filling. Don’t skip this step! Then, we have one 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. This gives us the perfect sweetness and creamy texture without needing to cook anything. For that vibrant lemon flavor, we’re using ½ cup of fresh lemon juice. Make sure it’s fresh – bottled stuff just doesn’t have the same punch! You can also add 1-2 teaspoons of lemon zest if you have it; it really amps up the citrusy aroma and taste. And finally, about 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to round out all the flavors.

For the Blueberry Swirl:
This is what makes it extra special! We’ll need 1 ½ cups of fresh blueberries. I love using fresh because they hold their shape and provide a wonderful burst of flavor. If you can’t find fresh, frozen will work, but make sure to thaw them and drain off any excess liquid. For a little extra color and sweetness in the swirl, you can mix the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of cornstarch. This helps create a slightly jammy consistency that swirls beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Okay, so the first thing you’ll want to do is get your 9-inch pie plate ready. You don’t need to preheat an oven since this is no-bake, but you do need to press your crust into the pan. I like to use the bottom of a glass or a measuring cup to get an even layer all the way up the sides and across the bottom. This helps prevent the crust from crumbling when you slice it later. Pop this prepared crust into the freezer for about 10-15 minutes while you make the filling. This will help it firm up nicely.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. Give them a good whisk to make sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures that every bite of your crust has that lovely balance of sweet and salty.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, pour in your melted butter. Add this to your dry ingredients. Mix everything together with a fork or your hands until it feels like wet sand. This means it’s perfectly moistened and ready to be pressed into the pie plate.

Step 4: Combine

Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of your prepared pie plate. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to get a nice, compact crust. Then, pop it into the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm up while you prepare the filling. This helps it hold its shape!

Step 5: Prepare Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. You don’t want any lumps! Then, gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined. Next, add the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract (and lemon zest, if using). Beat on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix here; we want it smooth but not airy.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

Gently fold about half of the fresh blueberries into the cream cheese mixture. You don’t want to mash them, just distribute them evenly. Pour this creamy mixture into your chilled graham cracker crust. Scatter the remaining blueberries over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, you can gently swirl them in with a knife or skewer for a pretty marbled effect. I usually just scatter them and let them sink a bit naturally.

Step 7: Bake

This is the “no-bake” part! You don’t bake this pie. Instead, you’ll cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4-6 hours, or until it’s completely set and firm. Overnight is even better if you can wait!

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

The chilling process is crucial for setting the filling. Once the pie is firm, you can drizzle a little extra sweetened condensed milk over the top if you like, or just serve it as is. For the blueberry swirl, you can mix your reserved blueberries with a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of cornstarch and gently cook for a minute or two until slightly thickened, then swirl this over the top before chilling for a more defined “glaze-like” effect. Let it chill until fully set. I like to add any decorative elements right before serving.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Once the pie is firm and chilled, it’s time to slice and enjoy! I recommend using a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each slice for the cleanest cuts. Serve chilled. This easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie is absolutely perfect on its own, but a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh mint leaves never hurts!

What to Serve It With

This easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie is so versatile, it works with almost anything! For breakfast, I love a thin slice with my morning coffee. It’s not too sweet, so it feels like a decadent start to the day without being overwhelming. The bright lemon is incredibly refreshing first thing. For a more substantial brunch, I’ll often serve it alongside some fresh fruit salad, maybe some yogurt parfait, or even light scones. It’s the perfect elegant finish to a leisurely weekend meal. As a dessert, it’s a showstopper. I’ll serve it with a side of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a truly special occasion, a few fresh berries on the side and a sprig of mint really elevate the presentation. And for those cozy snack moments when you just need a little something sweet? It’s perfect with a cup of herbal tea or even just on its own. My family has a tradition of having this after a backyard BBQ, especially when we have guests. It’s a lighter option after heavier meals, and everyone always devours it. I’ve also made it for birthdays, and it’s a huge hit because it’s so different and delicious. Trust me, it pairs wonderfully with a good conversation and good company!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Easy No-Bake Lemon Blueberry Pie

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make sure this easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie turns out perfectly every single time. For the crust, I cannot stress enough the importance of pressing it firmly and evenly. If it’s loose or uneven, it’ll crumble when you slice it, and nobody wants that! Using the bottom of a measuring cup or a glass really helps get a compact, professional-looking base. And that freezer chill time? Don’t skip it! It’s the secret to a crust that holds its shape. When it comes to the cream cheese, make absolutely sure it’s softened to room temperature. Lumpy cream cheese is the enemy of a smooth, luscious filling. I usually leave mine out on the counter for at least an hour before I start. If you’re short on time, you can gently warm it in the microwave for short bursts, but be careful not to melt it! For the lemon juice, fresh is always best. The flavor is so much brighter and more vibrant than bottled. If you’re not a huge fan of tartness, you can always adjust the lemon juice down slightly, or even add a touch more sweetened condensed milk, but I find this ratio to be just right. When folding in the blueberries, be gentle! We want those beautiful whole berries intact, not mashed into a purple mess. If you want a really defined swirl, prepare your blueberry “jam” mixture (blueberries, sugar, cornstarch) and let it cool slightly before gently swirling it into the filling just before chilling. I learned this after a few attempts where the berries just sort of disappeared into the filling. For ingredient swaps, I’ve experimented with lime juice instead of lemon, and it’s also delicious, though a bit more tart. You could also try adding a tablespoon of finely chopped crystallized ginger to the filling for a little kick! For baking (or rather, chilling!) success, make sure your refrigerator is at the right temperature. If it’s too warm, the pie won’t set properly. And patience is key; letting it chill overnight really makes a difference in texture and flavor melding.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie is best enjoyed fresh, but it does store quite well! If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can keep it at room temperature for a couple of hours, but it’s really best to refrigerate it as soon as possible to maintain its texture and freshness. For refrigerator storage, make sure it’s covered tightly. You can use plastic wrap, foil, or even a pie keeper. It will stay delicious for about 3-4 days in the fridge. The crust might soften slightly over time, but it’s still quite good. I find that if I’m going to store it, I sometimes hold off on adding any extra garnishes like fresh berries or whipped cream until just before serving. Freezing this pie isn’t my first choice because the texture of the filling can change slightly upon thawing, but it is possible if you really need to! If you want to freeze it, wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 1-2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. For the glaze timing, it’s best to add any glaze or swirls right before serving if you’re going to be storing it, as some glazes can become sticky or run when stored for too long. Generally, this pie is so simple that it’s usually gobbled up before storage becomes a major concern!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version of this easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie, you can easily swap out the graham crackers for gluten-free graham crackers or even crushed gluten-free cookies like shortbread. You might need to adjust the amount of butter slightly depending on how finely the gluten-free crumbs bind. Ensure your cookie choice has a similar texture and flavor profile for the best results. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set there!
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
There’s no zucchini in this particular recipe! This is a lemon blueberry pie. If you’re thinking of a different recipe, zucchini typically doesn’t need to be peeled for most baked goods unless the recipe specifically calls for it. The skin adds fiber and color. However, for this pie, the ingredients are graham crackers, butter, cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and blueberries.
Can I make this as muffins instead?
While this is a no-bake pie and designed to set in a pie plate, you could certainly adapt the concept into “no-bake” bars or possibly even a mousse-like dessert served in individual cups. A true muffin would require baking. However, you could prepare the crust mixture and press it into the bottoms of muffin liners, then top with the lemon-blueberry filling and chill. It wouldn’t be a “muffin” in the traditional baked sense, but you’d get individual portions of the delicious flavors!
How can I adjust the sweetness level?
This pie has a lovely balance, but if you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the sweetened condensed milk by a few tablespoons and add a bit more lemon juice to compensate for the tang. You could also reduce the sugar in the crust. Another option is to use a sugar substitute in place of granulated sugar if you’re watching your sugar intake. The blueberries themselves add natural sweetness, and the tartness of the lemon balances everything out beautifully.
What can I use instead of the glaze?
The “glaze” in this context is more of a swirl effect with the blueberries. If you don’t want to do the blueberry swirl, or if you’re looking for other topping ideas, you can simply dust the top of the chilled pie with a little powdered sugar right before serving. A dollop of fresh whipped cream is also a fantastic alternative. You could also top it with a simple berry compote made by simmering berries with a touch of sugar and lemon juice.

Final Thoughts

Seriously, this easy no-bake lemon blueberry pie is a lifesaver. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a kitchen magician, effortlessly whipping up something that tastes incredibly decadent and looks absolutely gorgeous. It’s the perfect antidote to a busy schedule or a hot day, delivering pure, unadulterated happiness in every bite. The bright, zesty lemon and sweet, juicy blueberries are a match made in heaven, and the creamy, no-bake texture is just divine. I hope you give this a try, and I can’t wait to hear how much you and your loved ones enjoy it! If you’re a fan of simple, delicious desserts that wow, you might also love my No-Bake Chocolate Raspberry Tart or my Key Lime Pie Mousse Cups. They’re in the same vein of easy, impressive, and utterly delicious! Let me know in the comments below how your pie turns out, or if you have any fun variations you tried. Happy no-baking!

Easy No-Bake Chocolate Cream Pie

This easy no-bake chocolate cream pie is a crowd-pleaser! With a simple cookie crust and a rich, creamy chocolate filling, it's perfect for any occasion when you need a delicious dessert without turning on the oven.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Crust

  • 2.5 cups chocolate wafer crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

Filling

  • 1 package instant chocolate pudding mix 3.4 oz size
  • 3 cups milk cold
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup whipped topping thawed (like Cool Whip)

Toppings (Optional)

  • whipped cream
  • chocolate shavings

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate wafer crumbs and melted butter. Stir until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
  • In a separate large bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until well combined and slightly thickened. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to set.
  • Add the softened cream cheese to the pudding mixture. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes.
  • Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  • Spoon the chocolate filling into the prepared pie crust. Spread evenly.
  • Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm. This allows the pie to set properly.
  • Before serving, top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.

Notes

For an even richer crust, you can add a tablespoon or two of sugar to the crumb mixture. If you can't find chocolate wafer crumbs, you can crush chocolate graham crackers or Oreos (filling removed) to achieve a similar result.

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Hey, I’m Claire Bennett—home baker, frosting fanatic, and the voice behind cupcake-recipes.com. I share easy, tested cupcake recipes with clear steps, simple ingredients, and decorating tips anyone can follow. From classic vanilla to fun twists, consider this your friendly guide to sweet, no-stress bakes.

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