Delicious No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake for Sweet Cravings

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the fresh taste of citrus, and when it comes to dessert, it s hard to resist the allure of a No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake. Imagine the burst of zesty lemon curd layered on a creamy, dreamy cheesecake that requires no oven for perfection. A friend brought this delightful dessert to a summer gathering, and I found myself going back for seconds and thirds! This recipe hits that sweet spot between indulgence and lightness, making it a perfect treat regardless of the season.

Whether you re hosting a small get-together or simply want to treat yourself after a long day, this No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is your ticket to elevated homemade desserts. Plus, it s a breeze to whip up with just a handful of ingredients. So, grab your mixing bowl and let s create something that will impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat. With a crispy graham cracker crust, rich cream cheese filling, and a cloud of fluffy meringue on top, this cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it s a celebration of flavor that you ll want to make again and again!

Why is No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake perfect?

Effortless preparation: This cheesecake requires no baking, saving you time and energy while still delivering a show-stopping dessert.
Zesty flavor: The combination of tangy lemon curd and creamy cheesecake offers a delightful burst of freshness that brightens any occasion.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Your guests will rave about this light and refreshing treat, making it perfect for summer picnics or dinner parties.
Versatile option: Easily customize this cheesecake by adding your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate.
Quick to assemble: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you ll have this luscious dessert ready in no time. For more no-bake delights, check out my easy no-bake desserts collection.

No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Ingredients

For the Crust

Graham Cracker Crumbs essential for a crunchy and sweet base that complements the creamy filling.
Melted Unsalted Butter helps bind the crumbs together for a rich texture.
Brown Sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor to the crust.
Kosher Salt enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
Vanilla Extract infuses the crust with warm, comforting notes.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

Full Fat Cream Cheese provides a rich and creamy texture essential for a decadent cheesecake.
Sweetened Condensed Milk gives the filling a luscious sweetness while eliminating the need for extra sugar.
Lemon Juice adds brightness and tanginess, essential for that zesty flavor.
Vanilla Extract enhances the overall flavor profile and adds depth.
Kosher Salt balances sweetness and amplifies the flavors.

For the Meringue Topping

Egg Whites (room temperature) crucial for achieving that fluffy, airy consistency in your meringue.
Vanilla Extract adds a subtle flavor to the meringue, making it deliciously fragrant.
Cream of Tartar stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring they whip up perfectly.
Sugar Syrup contributes sweetness and helps form those beautiful stiff peaks when combined with egg whites.

For the Lemon Curd Layer

Lemon Curd provides a tangy, luscious topping that makes this No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake truly irresistible.

How to Make No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

1. Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, kosher salt, and vanilla. Mix until the texture resembles coarse sand.

2. Press into pan: Firmly press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom and 1-2 inches up the sides of a springform pan. To achieve a smooth edge, use the bottom of a glass.

3. Make the filling: Beat the cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk in three increments, mixing well after each addition.

4. Add flavor: Mix in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until fully combined. This will give your filling that delightful lemony punch.

5. Chill the cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese filling into the crust, smoothing it evenly. Cover with plastic wrap, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.

6. Prepare the meringue: In a small saucepan, heat sugar and water on high until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes syrupy.

7. Whisk the egg whites: In a bowl, whisk together egg whites, vanilla, and cream of tartar on medium-high speed until fluffy and doubled in volume, about 5-7 minutes.

8. Incorporate the syrup: Slowly add the sugar syrup while continuing to beat the egg whites. Whip until stiff peaks form and the mixture holds its shape, around 8-10 minutes.

9. Assemble the cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and layer with lemon curd. Top generously with meringue and use a kitchen torch to brown the meringue until golden and toasted.

Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake?

Picture a sunny afternoon, with a delightful dessert that s brightening your day. The zesty flavors of lemon complement equally inviting side dishes for a complete meal experience.

• Fresh Berries: The sweetness and acidity of raspberries or strawberries balance the tangy lemon perfectly, refreshing your palate.

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds richness and a luxurious texture, enhancing each bite of cheesecake.

• Iced Tea Lemonade: This invigorating drink s citrusy notes echo the cheesecake s lemony goodness, providing a thirst-quenching contrast.

• Spinach Salad: Tossed with citrus vinaigrette, this salad offers a vibrant contrast of textures, making a light appetizer before dessert.

• Lemon Sorbet: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet alongside your cheesecake, amplifying that citrus flavor.

• Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle crunchy almonds over the cheesecake or salad for a delightful nutty flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.

• Dark Chocolate: A small piece of dark chocolate can be a perfect companion, offering a bittersweet flavor contrast that enriches the sensory experience of your meal.

• Prosecco: This bubbly wine s crispness and slight sweetness make it a wonderful match for the lightness of the cheesecake, elevating your dessert occasion.

Make Ahead Options

This No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy days! You can prepare the graham cracker crust and cream cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance, simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The crust will hold its shape, while the filling will be just as creamy and delicious. When you re ready to serve, quickly whip the meringue and assemble the cheesecake by layering the lemon curd and topping it with the golden meringue. This guarantees a delightful dessert that tastes freshly made without the last-minute rush!

No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful cheesecake recipe and make it your own!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookies or almond flour for a tasty alternative.
• Berry Bliss: Swirl in fresh or frozen berries into the cream cheese filling for a fruity twist.
• Coconut Cream: Replace half the cream cheese with coconut cream for an exotic flair.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a rich touch by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the meringue before serving.
• Honey Swirl: Use honey instead of sugar in the meringue for a natural sweetness and a bit of floral flavor.
• Lavender Zest: Infuse the lemon curd with culinary lavender for a unique aromatic experience.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the meringue topping for a surprising heat burst.
• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts to the crust for extra texture and flavor, enhancing that delightful crunch.

Expert Tips for No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and egg whites to reach room temperature for easier mixing. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth filling.

Perfect Meringue: Be sure to use a clean, dry bowl for whipping egg whites. Any grease can prevent them from stabilizing properly and achieving those beautiful stiff peaks.

Refrigerate Longer: If you have the time, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight. A longer chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully and helps with slicing.

Prevent Soggy Crust: To avoid a soggy graham cracker crust, make sure to press firmly and evenly into the pan. Bake briefly at 350 °F before cooling for a sturdier crust.

Use a Torch Safely: When browning the meringue, keep the torch moving to prevent burning. Watch closely you want golden, not charred!

Mind the Layers: Pour a thin layer of lemon curd over the filling before adding meringue to enhance flavor and keep the meringue from sliding off the cheesecake.

How to Store and Freeze No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake

Fridge: Keep the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: There s no need to reheat this dessert, but let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Meringue Care: If storing with meringue on top, be aware that it may lose its texture. For best results, freeze the cheesecake without the meringue and add it fresh before serving.

No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

How can I tell if my lemons are ripe?
Absolutely! When selecting lemons, look for those that are bright yellow, firm, and slightly heavy for their size. Avoid lemons with dark spots or a dull color. A ripe lemon will feel slightly tender when pressed, indicating juiciness.

How should I store my No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake?
To keep your cheesecake in top shape, cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it s well-sealed to prevent absorbing any odors from your fridge.

Can I freeze Lemon Curd Cheesecake?
Very! To freeze your cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air can escape. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor beautifully.

What could go wrong when making meringue?
Common meringue issues include not reaching stiff peaks or the mixture falling flat. To avoid this, ensure your bowl is clean and dry, as any grease can ruin the egg whites. Additionally, whip the egg whites until they are frothy before slowly incorporating the sugar syrup. It should take about 8-10 minutes of beating to achieve the right consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for No Bake Lemon Meringue Cheesecake?
If you re concerned about allergies, this cheesecake contains dairy and eggs. For a dairy-free version, you might try using coconut cream instead of cream cheese, though this will change the flavor profile. Always double-check ingredients like sweetened condensed milk for hidden allergens if you re serving those with dietary restrictions.

How can I ensure my meringue doesn t weep?
To prevent weeping, make sure the sugar is fully dissolved before adding it to the egg whites. Additionally, add a bit of cornstarch to stabilize the meringue, and serve the cheesecake shortly after assembling for the best texture! Enjoy each step, and don t hesitate to experiment to find the right balance for your taste!