Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lemon Lasagna is a refreshing, no-bake layered dessert that’s perfect for spring and summer. With a buttery cookie crust, tangy cream cheese layer, zesty lemon pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, it offers a light yet indulgent experience in every bite. Its vibrant flavor and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want a bright, citrusy dessert.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
golden Oreos or vanilla sandwich cookiesunsalted buttercream cheesegranulated sugarmilkinstant lemon pudding mixwhipped topping (like Cool Whip)lemon zest (optional for garnish)
directions
Crush the golden Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
Melt the butter and mix it with the cookie crumbs until fully combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes.
In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust and return to the refrigerator.
In another bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
Spread the lemon pudding over the cream cheese layer.
Top with whipped topping and smooth it out evenly.
Chill the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Garnish with lemon zest just before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 12-15 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 4 hours or moreTotal time: about 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use shortbread or graham crackers for the crust instead of golden Oreos.
Add a layer of lemon curd for extra tang.
Top with crushed lemon candies or white chocolate curls.
Use homemade whipped cream for a more natural flavor.
Add a layer of blueberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
storage/reheating
Store Lemon Lasagna in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.This dessert is not suitable for freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.Serve directly from the fridge for best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pudding?
Yes, just be sure it’s thick enough to layer and has a strong lemon flavor.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It’s moderately sweet with a nice balance from the tartness of the lemon.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely, it’s actually better when made a day ahead to allow the layers to set.
Can I use lemon extract instead of pudding?
No, lemon extract won’t create the same texture or structure as pudding.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer.
Is this gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
How long does it take to set?
At least 4 hours in the fridge, but overnight is best.
Can I use fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is great for enhancing flavor, but you still need pudding mix for structure.
Can I serve it frozen?
It’s best served chilled, not frozen, as freezing alters the creamy texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan or two 9×13 pans to accommodate.
Conclusion
Lemon Lasagna is a light, tangy, and creamy dessert that delivers layers of flavor without turning on the oven. It’s easy to make, stunning to serve, and always a hit with lemon lovers. Whether for a sunny picnic or a festive dinner, this no-bake treat brings a burst of citrusy joy to the table.
PrintLemon Lasagna
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Lasagna is a light and refreshing no-bake dessert made with layers of golden Oreo crust, sweetened cream cheese, lemon pudding, and whipped topping. Perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 package (14.3 oz) golden Oreos, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant lemon pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional for garnish)
- Additional crushed Oreos or lemon slices (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Crush the golden Oreos into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan to form the crust. Chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Fold in half of the whipped topping. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and 3 cups of cold milk until thickened (about 2-3 minutes). Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Garnish with lemon zest, additional crushed Oreos, or lemon slices before serving if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice or zest for more intense lemon flavor.
- Let the dessert set overnight for best results.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.