Description
A delightful no-bake treat featuring a crunchy pretzel crust layered with tangy lemon filling and topped with whipped cream—perfectly balanced between sweet and salty.
Ingredients
2 cups crushed pretzels
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the lemon filling over the chilled pretzel crust and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread whipped cream over the set lemon layer.
- Optional: Garnish with additional lemon zest or crushed pretzels before serving.
Notes
This dessert is best served chilled and can be made ahead to allow flavors to meld.
For a twist, substitute lemon juice with lime juice or add chopped white chocolate to the filling.
To make vegan/dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and condensed milk alternatives, and coconut cream for the topping.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; do not freeze.
Freshly whipped cream enhances texture and flavor compared to store-bought options.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/9th of recipe)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg