There’s something magical about a dessert that takes minutes to prepare, requires no oven, and still tastes like you spent hours crafting it. That’s exactly what this creamy no-bake citrus dessert delivers—a luscious, spoonable treat that blends sweet and tangy flavors with light, airy texture and delightful layers. Whether you’re planning a family get-together, need a fast dessert for a potluck, or just want something refreshing for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
This recipe is inspired by classic layered no-bake desserts that rely on pantry staples and refrigeration rather than complicated steps or expensive equipment. It’s incredibly adaptable, beginner-friendly, and customizable based on your preferences or what’s already in your kitchen.
Let’s explore how to create this crowd-pleasing dessert from start to finish—plus a few fun ways to make it your own.
Why This Dessert Stands Out
Here are just a few reasons why this no-bake treat is worth making again and again:
- No oven required—great for hot days or quick preparations
- Requires only a handful of basic ingredients
- Can be made ahead and chilled until needed
- Refreshing citrus flavor balanced with creamy richness
- Visually appealing layers for a professional look without the fuss
It’s a wonderful recipe to have on hand for birthdays, holidays, last-minute guests, or even weekday cravings. It’s also a great dessert option for beginner cooks or kids learning to help in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe combines creamy ingredients with tart citrus drink powder and classic tea biscuits to form a layered dessert similar to an icebox cake or tiramisu in texture, but with a bright, tropical twist.
For the Cream Mixture:
- 200 ml whole milk (approximately 7/8 cup)
- 1 can (395 g) heavy cream or table cream (about 14 ounces)
- 1 can (395 g) sweetened condensed milk (about 14 ounces)
- 1 packet (50 g) lemon-flavored powdered drink mix (around 1.8 ounces)
For the Layers:
- 1 package of Maria biscuits or other plain tea biscuits
- Extra milk for dipping the biscuits (cold or room temperature)
For the Topping:
- Dulce de leche, warmed slightly for easy spreading or drizzling
- Optional: chocolate shavings, cookie crumbs, or fruit slices
The use of lemon drink mix gives the dessert its signature citrusy tang, while the condensed milk and cream provide a sweet, smooth base that holds everything together. Maria biscuits are commonly used in no-bake recipes for their neutral flavor and ability to soften into cake-like layers.
How to Make This Creamy No-Bake Dessert
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Base
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the milk, heavy cream, and sweetened condensed milk. Sprinkle the lemon-flavored powdered drink mix over the top. Using a whisk or hand mixer, blend all ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, slightly thickened, and evenly combined. The lemon drink mix reacts with the dairy, giving it a soft set and a rich, tangy flavor.
The result should be a light, creamy filling that pours easily but holds its shape slightly. Taste it—you’ll notice the balance between the sweet condensed milk and the citrus from the powdered drink mix. Adjust as needed if you like it more tart or sweeter.
Step 2: Layer the Cream and Biscuits
In a deep square or rectangular serving dish (glass dishes work well to show off the layers), spread a thin layer of the cream mixture to coat the bottom.
Next, dip each biscuit quickly into plain milk. You don’t want them too soggy—just softened enough to absorb some moisture and blend into the dessert. Arrange the dipped biscuits side by side over the base layer of cream, forming a single biscuit layer.
Spread another layer of the cream mixture on top, making sure it completely covers the biscuit layer. Repeat the process, alternating dipped biscuits and cream, until you’ve used all the biscuits and cream. The final layer should be cream.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touch
Warm the dulce de leche slightly to make it easier to spread or drizzle. You can either spoon it over the top and swirl it into the cream layer, or pipe decorative lines or circles using a small piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off.
The dulce de leche adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon cream and gives the dessert a visually appealing finish.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For a firmer texture and cleaner slices, let it chill for 4 hours or overnight.
As it chills, the biscuits absorb the cream and soften into a cake-like texture. The citrus cream also firms slightly, making the layers more defined and easier to serve.
Variations to Try
This base recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to personalize it:
- Chocolate version: Swap the lemon drink powder for a chocolate-flavored version or cocoa mix, and top with chocolate ganache or shavings.
- Berry topping: Skip the dulce de leche and top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberry preserves.
- Nut crunch: Sprinkle crushed toasted almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts between the layers for added texture.
- Coconut twist: Add a handful of shredded coconut to the cream mixture and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top.
- Tropical flavor: Use pineapple or passion fruit drink mix instead of lemon for a fruity variation.
This dessert can also be portioned into individual cups or jars for personal servings or party treats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this no-bake dessert chilled and sliced into squares or scooped with a spoon. It’s light and flavorful enough to follow a heavy meal but also rich enough to feel satisfying on its own.
Pair it with:
- Hot tea or coffee for contrast
- A citrus-based cocktail or mocktail for a themed presentation
- Fresh mint leaves as garnish for a pop of green
It’s perfect as a make-ahead dessert for family dinners, birthday celebrations, picnics, or potlucks. And because it holds well in the fridge, you can make it the night before and simply uncover and serve when ready.
Storage Tips
This dessert stores well for several days and may even taste better after a night in the fridge.
- Keep it covered and refrigerated for up to 4 days
- Not ideal for freezing, as the dairy components may separate and biscuits may become too soft when thawed
- Best enjoyed cold, directly from the refrigerator
Final Thoughts
This creamy no-bake lemon dessert is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or equipment to create a show-stopping sweet. With its soft layers, smooth citrus cream, and caramel drizzle on top, each bite offers comfort and brightness all at once.
Whether you’re pressed for time, avoiding the oven, or just in the mood for something cool and sweet, this is a dessert worth bookmarking. It’s low-effort, high-reward, and endlessly adaptable based on what you have at home.
Ready in minutes, chilled to perfection, and always a hit—this is the kind of recipe you’ll return to all year long.