There is something irresistibly refreshing about the No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe that makes it a treasured treat for lemon lovers everywhere. This vibrant dessert brings together a buttery biscuit base, a luxuriously smooth lemon curd filling, and a light whipped cream topping, creating the perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and crunchy textures. Whether you’re after a quick summer sweet or a simple yet elegant finish to your meal, this no-fuss slice does not disappoint and will soon become a favorite to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe plays a crucial role in building the layers of taste and texture that make this dessert so special. From the crumbly biscuit base to the creamy, zesty filling, every component is simple yet essential for creating that perfect slice.
- Digestive biscuits or graham crackers: These crushed biscuits form a sturdy, buttery base that provides the perfect crunch and subtle sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs together and adds richness to the base.
- Powdered sugar: Used in the base and filling for a smooth sweetness that enhances the lemon flavor without overpowering it.
- Lemon curd: The star ingredient offering a bright, tangy creaminess that defines the dessert’s character.
- Heavy cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it lightens the filling and adds airy texture.
- Cream cheese: Provides creamy body and subtle tang to balance the lemon’s zing.
- Vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Lemon zest: Optional but highly recommended to amplify the fresh citrus notes.
- Whipped cream or topping: Adds a cloud-like finish and a visual lift.
- Fresh mint leaves: Optional garnish to brighten the presentation and add a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by crushing your digestive biscuits or graham crackers until they’re fine crumbs—this creates the perfect texture for your base. Combine these crumbs with powdered sugar for a hint of sweetness, then stir in the melted butter. This mixture should be evenly coated and slightly clumpy to hold together once pressed.
Step 2: Press the Base into the Pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Firmly press the biscuit mixture into the bottom of the pan, ensuring it forms a compact and even layer. Pop it in the fridge so it chills and sets up nicely while you move on to the filling.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Curd Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is silky smooth without lumps. Add the luscious lemon curd, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon zest. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is combined into a creamy, tangy filling that’s bursting with lemon flavor.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. This step is crucial because it adds a lightness to the filling that makes each bite feel like a dream.
Step 5: Combine the Cream and Lemon Curd Filling
Gently fold your whipped cream into the lemon curd mixture. Take your time here to maintain the airy quality, folding just until blended. This creates that perfect light, fluffy texture that makes this slice so delightful.
Step 6: Assemble the Slice
Spread the creamy lemon curd filling evenly over the chilled biscuit base using a spatula. Make sure the layer is smooth and thick, setting the stage for the luscious topping.
Step 7: Add the Topping and Chill
Carefully spoon or spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the lemon layer. Garnish with extra lemon zest and fresh mint leaves if desired. Then, refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours to allow the filling to firm up perfectly and the flavors to meld.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once set, slice into squares or bars. Each bite offers a contrast of textures and bold lemon flavor that truly lives up to the No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe name.
How to Serve No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates this dream slice like a sprinkling of freshly grated lemon zest and a few bright mint leaves. They add not only a burst of color but also layers of fresh aroma and subtle herbal notes that complement the citrus tang beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve this slice alongside a cup of hot tea or a refreshing glass of sparkling water infused with cucumber or mint for a balanced experience. It’s light enough not to overwhelm but rich enough to satisfy a sweet craving.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, cut the slice into mini squares or use a cookie cutter to make bite-sized shapes. Layer the slices on a pretty platter with edible flowers or citrus slices for an eye-catching dessert display that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy its bright flavors day after day.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the slice. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to preserve the texture and taste.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply allow frozen slices to thaw slowly in the refrigerator for the best creamy consistency and fresh lemon flavor.
FAQs
Can I make the lemon curd from scratch for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade lemon curd is fantastic and adds an extra layer of freshness and zing. Just ensure your lemon curd is completely cooled before mixing it with the cream cheese to avoid curdling.
What can I use if I don’t have digestive biscuits or graham crackers?
You can substitute with any mild, slightly sweet biscuits like shortbread or vanilla wafers. The key is to have a crumbly base that holds together well when mixed with butter.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. Just check that your lemon curd does not contain gelatin if you need to be strictly vegetarian.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
With a few swaps like coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, you can adapt this recipe, though the texture might vary slightly. Be sure to use a lemon curd that fits your dietary needs as well.
How long does it take for the slice to set properly?
Chill the slice for at least 3 to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This resting time allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to marry beautifully, ensuring each slice holds its shape perfectly when served.
Final Thoughts
The No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe is a wonderful dessert to keep in your repertoire when you want something light, refreshing, and utterly delicious without turning on the oven. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. Give it a try, and you may find yourself reaching for it over and over again after your first bite!
Print
No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Lemon Curd Dream Slice is a refreshing and luscious dessert featuring a crunchy biscuit base topped with a creamy lemon curd filling and whipped cream. Perfect for warm days or when you want a quick, elegant dessert without using the oven, this slice combines tangy lemon flavors with rich creaminess in every bite.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 1/2 cups digestive biscuits (or graham crackers), crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
Lemon Curd Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional, for extra lemon flavor)
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
Garnish
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a bowl, combine the crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers with powdered sugar if using. Add the melted unsalted butter and stir thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together.
- Press the Base into the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square or rectangular baking pan with parchment paper. Press the biscuit mixture firmly and evenly into the base of the pan. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill and set while preparing the filling.
- Make the Lemon Curd Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add lemon curd, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest if using. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring it holds shape well.
- Combine the Cream and Lemon Curd Filling: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon curd mixture, taking care to keep the mixture light and airy without deflating the whipped cream.
- Assemble the Slice: Spoon the lemon curd filling over the chilled biscuit base in the pan, spreading the filling evenly with a spatula for a smooth top layer.
- Topping: Spread a layer of whipped cream or whipped topping evenly over the lemon curd layer. Garnish with additional lemon zest and fresh mint leaves if desired for a fresh appearance.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled slice for at least 3-4 hours or until the filling is firm and set to create clean slices.
- Serve: Remove from the fridge, slice into squares or bars, and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Notes
- You can substitute digestive biscuits with graham crackers for the base depending on availability.
- Optionally, add lemon zest to the filling to intensify the lemon flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling mixing process.
- Chilling time is important for the slice to firm up properly; refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight for best results.
- This dessert is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- The recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free biscuits.
