Introduction

No Bake Lemon Cheesecake Parfaits are a bright and creamy dessert that’s perfect for warm days or anytime you want a refreshing treat. With layers of zesty lemon pudding, smooth cream cheese, and crunchy graham crackers, these parfaits come together quickly and require no oven time.

The image shows two clear glass cups each containing a layered lemon dessert. From the base, the first layer is a smooth, pale yellow pudding, followed by a layer of light brown crumbly crust, then another thick pale yellow pudding layer. The top layer is a fluffy white whipped cream swirled high above the glass rim, decorated with a small lemon slice on the side. The glasses are placed on a black and white checkered cloth, with whole and halved bright yellow lemons in the background, all set on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 (3.4 oz.) boxes lemon instant pudding mix
8 oz. cream cheese
2 cups milk
8 oz. Cool Whip
16 graham crackers, crushed
Whipped cream for topping
Fresh lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mixes and 2 cups of milk until smooth. Note this differs from the box instructions.
Step 2: Cut the cream cheese into cubes and add them to the pudding mixture. Use a hand mixer to blend until fully combined and smooth.
Step 3: Fold in the Cool Whip gently until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor, or place them in a gallon-sized zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or your hands.
Step 5: Assemble the parfaits by layering crushed graham crackers, then a layer of the lemon cheesecake pudding mixture, another graham cracker layer, and finish with more pudding mixture in your parfait glasses.
Step 6: Top each parfait with whipped cream and garnish with fresh lemon slices. Serve immediately or chill before serving for a firmer texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra zest, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the pudding mixture.
Swap graham crackers with digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies for a different flavor and texture.
If you prefer a tangier cheesecake flavor, use low-fat Greek yogurt instead of some or all of the Cool Whip.
Make individual servings in small jars or cups for a pretty presentation, great for parties.

Storage

Store the parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The graham cracker layers may soften slightly over time but will still taste delicious. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A clear glass holds a layered lemon dessert with four layers: at the bottom is a crumbly light brown layer, followed by a smooth pale yellow cream layer, then another crumbly light brown layer, topped with a thick pale yellow cream layer. On top of all layers is a fluffy white whipped cream swirl, decorated with a thin bright yellow lemon slice tucked on the side. The glass sits on a white marbled surface with blurred lemons in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these parfaits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered and refrigerated to maintain freshness.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip?

You can substitute with whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping if preferred. Just be sure to fold it in gently to keep the parfait light and fluffy.