A absolutely delightful lemon custard dessert that requires no baking and just 5 minutes of your time? Yes, please! This recipe is perfect for those days when you’re craving something sweet, tangy, and refreshing but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy-peasy lemon squeezy dessert!
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time and no baking required, this dessert is a lifesaver for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
- Refreshingly Tangy: The lemon juice and zest give this custard a bright, zesty flavor that’s perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the condensed milk.
- Versatile: Serve it as is, or dress it up with berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for extra texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or grater
- Serving glasses or bowls
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Lemon Goodness
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined. The mixture will thicken slightly as the lemon juice reacts with the milk. Tip: For an extra zesty flavor, let the mixture sit for a few minutes before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This should take about 2-3 minutes on high speed. Be careful not to over-whip, or you’ll end up with butter!
Step 3: Fold It All Together
Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until fully incorporated. The key here is to keep the mixture light and airy, so take your time and use a spatula to fold in a figure-eight motion.
Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can serve the custard immediately for a softer texture, or chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for a firmer consistency. Either way, it’s delicious!
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled, as it provides a brighter, more natural flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will work, but the taste won’t be as vibrant. To make the dessert even more luxurious, consider adding a layer of blueberry or raspberry compote at the bottom of each serving glass before adding the custard. And for those who love a bit of crunch, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut on top adds wonderful texture.
Recipe Variations
- Berry Lemon Custard: Layer the custard with fresh berries or a berry compote for a fruity twist.
- Coconut Lemon Custard: Substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
- Chocolate Lemon Custard: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top or mix in chocolate chips for a decadent version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This lemon custard dessert can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld together even more, making it even tastier.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can use coconut condensed milk and coconut whipped cream as substitutes for the dairy ingredients. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Definitely! Lime juice and zest can be used in place of lemon for a different but equally refreshing citrus flavor. Just adjust the amount to taste, as lime can be more tart than lemon.
Summary
This no-bake lemon custard dessert is the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, ready in just 5 minutes. It’s versatile, easy to make, and sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a quick treat, it’s a guaranteed hit.