No-Bake Lemon Bars

Bright, creamy, and refreshingly tangy, these no-bake lemon bars are the perfect dessert when you want something light yet indulgent.

The buttery shortbread crust creates a rich, crumbly base that pairs beautifully with the silky lemon filling, delivering a balance of sweetness and citrusy zing in every bite.

With no oven required, this easy recipe comes together in minutes and chills into a perfectly sliceable treat.

Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering or craving a cool dessert after dinner, these lemon bars are guaranteed to impress with their vibrant flavor and smooth, cloud-like texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups shortbread cookie crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream or 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed

Directions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the shortbread crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt. Mix until evenly moistened, then firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth and fully blended.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream (or whipped topping) into the lemon mixture until light and fully incorporated.
  5. Spread the lemon filling evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the top.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
  7. Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, slice into 16 squares, and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired before serving.

Chefs Notes

  • For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled.
  • Chilling overnight will create even cleaner slices and a firmer texture.
  • For extra presentation, dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
  • You can swap shortbread crumbs with graham cracker crumbs for a slightly different flavor profile.
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