Amelia’s 5-Minute No-Bake Lemon Cream Dessert 🍋
This quick and easy no-bake lemon cream dessert is a refreshing, creamy treat that comes together in just 5 minutes of prep time! With a zesty lemon kick, velvety texture, and no cooking required after the initial heating, it’s perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or impressing guests with minimal effort. Top it with cinnamon, cocoa, or chocolate shavings for a personalized touch!
⏲️ Total Time: 5 minutes prep + 30 minutes chilling
🍽️ Servings: 4
🔥 Kcal: ~250 kcal per serving (varies based on toppings)
📝 Ingredients
- 400ml (1 ⅔ cups) milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar (or 1 tsp vanilla extract + 1 tsp sugar)
- 2 egg yolks
- 40g (⅓ cup) granulated sugar
- 15g (2 tbsp) cornstarch
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 100g (⅓ cup) sweetened condensed milk
- Optional toppings: Ground cinnamon, cocoa powder, or chocolate shavings
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Heat the Milk Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine 400ml milk, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar.
- Heat the mixture in a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan until just about to boil (about 2-3 minutes in the microwave or 5 minutes on the stovetop over medium heat). Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks, 40g sugar, and 15g cornstarch until smooth and pale.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
- Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Once fully combined, let the mixture cool completely to room temperature (about 10-15 minutes).
Step 4: Add Lemon and Condensed Milk
- Stir in the juice of 1 lemon and 100g sweetened condensed milk.
- Beat or whisk the mixture until it thickens to a creamy, custard-like consistency (about 1-2 minutes).
Step 5: Chill and Decorate
- Divide the mixture into 4 serving dishes or glasses.
- Decorate with a sprinkle of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or chocolate shavings, as desired.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up and let the flavors meld.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, zesty goodness! Perfect as a light dessert or a refreshing treat.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Smooth Texture: For an extra silky dessert, strain the milk mixture after heating to remove lemon zest.
- Flavor Twists: Swap lemon zest and juice for orange or lime for a different citrus vibe.
- Make It Vegan: Use plant-based milk (e.g., almond or oat), a vegan egg substitute, and coconut condensed milk.
- Serving Style: Serve in small mason jars or ramekins for a charming presentation.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Pairings: Serve with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a shortbread cookie on the side.
- Occasions: Perfect for quick weeknight desserts, dinner parties, or summer gatherings.
- Presentation: Layer with crushed graham crackers or granola for a parfait-style dessert.
🌿 Nutritional Benefits
- Lemon: Provides vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Milk & Egg Yolks: Offer protein and calcium for bone health.
- Low Effort, High Reward: A preservative-free dessert made with simple ingredients.
🥄 Dietary Information
- Contains Dairy & Eggs: Not suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets unless modified.
- Contains Gluten: Free of gluten unless toppings (e.g., cookies) are added.
- Allergen Note: Contains eggs and dairy; check for allergies.
📊 Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate, Without Toppings)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 6g
🗃️ Storage
- Store in an airtight container or covered serving dishes in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Not recommended for freezing, as the texture may become grainy.
Who Will Love This Dish?
- Lemon Lovers: The bright, zesty flavor is a citrus enthusiast’s dream.
- No-Bake Fans: Ideal for those who want a quick dessert without an oven.
- Busy Cooks: Perfect for whipping up a last-minute treat in minutes.
- Dessert Enthusiasts: A creamy, refreshing alternative to heavier desserts.
Why It’s Awesome
- Lightning Fast: Ready in 5 minutes of prep, with a chill time that enhances the flavor.
- No Cooking Required (After Heating): Minimal effort for a sophisticated result.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or flavor variations to make it your own.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its light, creamy texture and tangy lemon flavor appeal to all ages.
Conclusion
Amelia’s 5-Minute No-Bake Lemon Cream Dessert is a game-changer for anyone craving a quick, refreshing, and elegant treat. With its luscious texture, vibrant lemon flavor, and endless topping possibilities, this dessert feels like a labor of love without the hassle. Chill, serve, and savor the burst of flavors in every spoonful! 🍋✨
