Lemon Lasagna Dessert Bars

This Lemon Lasagna is that breezy no bake dessert you want on a sunny day. With its vibrant lemon layers and creamy sweetness, it is always the first thing to disappear at family parties and picnics. Assembly is a snap with easy ingredients and a cool chilling time so you can spend more time enjoying the sunshine.

I first brought this lemon lasagna to a Sunday barbecue and wow did everyone go wild for it. Now it is my go to for spring and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

• Lemon sandwich cookies: form the buttery sweet base and bring big citrus taste. Choose a brand with lots of real lemon for best results
• Salted butter: adds richness and helps the crust hold together. Quality butter will give you the best flavor
• Cream cheese: creates the smooth tangy middle. Let it come to room temperature before using to avoid lumps
• Granulated white sugar: sweetens the creamy layer perfectly
• Sour cream: adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. Full fat works best for a silkier layer
• Whipped topping: gives cloudlike loft to every bite. Thaw it in the fridge so it folds in easily
• Lemon pie filling: brings zesty depth to the lemon layer. Use a high quality canned version for a true lemon punch
• Heavy cream: makes the lemon layer luscious and smooth
• Lemon juice: amps up the fresh citrus flavor. Use real juice for best results
• Vanilla pudding mix: stabilizes the layers and adds just a touch of extra flavor. Pick a good vanilla brand for best results
• Lemon zest: makes a beautiful bright garnish if you want a little fancy touch
• Crumbled lemon sandwich cookies: sprinkled on top look festive and add a nice crunch

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Line your baking pan with parchment paper or lightly spray it with baking spray to guarantee easy removal of the finished lasagna

Crush the Cookies:

Pulse lemon sandwich cookies in a food processor until they are fine crumbs This makes the perfect base for your crust

Make the Crust:

Drizzle in the melted butter and pulse again until the mixture looks like wet sand Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan for a solid foundation

Mix Creamy Layer:

Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until creamy and smooth Make sure there are no lumps to keep the layer light Then mix in sour cream until it is silky

Fold in Whip:

Gently fold in part of the whipped topping This makes the cream cheese layer extra airy Spread this mixture evenly over the crust and smooth the top

Layer the Lemon:

In a separate bowl whisk together lemon pie filling heavy cream and lemon juice until smooth For extra stability mix in most of the vanilla pudding powder Spread this bright lemon mixture evenly over your cream cheese layer

Finish with Whip:

Fold the rest of the vanilla pudding mix into the remaining whipped topping Then gently spread this over the lemon layer for a soft billowy top

Chill and Garnish:

Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least two hours This sets the layers Slice into squares and top with lemon zest and more cookie crumbles for a show stopping finish

Storage Tips

Lemon lasagna keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days Store it covered with plastic wrap for best texture Avoid freezing since the creamy layers may separate and become watery after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Golden Oreos if lemon cookies are unavailable Just add a bit more lemon zest or a splash of lemon extract to boost the citrus flavor Sour cream can be swapped for Greek yogurt for a little extra tang and a more protein packed layer

Serving Suggestions

Serve this ice cold right from the fridge on a hot day It looks lovely garnished with a few curls of lemon peel and a scattering of extra cookie crumbs For a real treat add a handful of fresh raspberries to each serving for sweet contrast

Cultural or Historical Context

Lemon lasagna is a fresh twist on the American classic dessert lasagna sometimes called lush or layered pudding dessert These no bake confections have been around for decades and are beloved at potlucks and family gatherings for their crowd friendly servings and chewy creamy layers

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Yes, while lemon sandwich cookies bring extra citrus flavor, vanilla or shortbread cookies can also provide a buttery crust with subtle sweetness.

→ How long should the dessert chill before serving?

It's best to refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight for firm layers and easy slicing.

→ Can the filling be made in advance?

Absolutely. Prepare the layered bars a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge until ready to garnish and serve.

→ What's the ideal garnish for serving?

Fresh lemon zest or extra crumbled lemon sandwich cookies add bright color and crunch to each serving.

→ Is it possible to make a lighter version?

Choose light whipped topping, reduced-fat cream cheese, and less sugar to easily adapt the bars to your taste.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best freshness and texture.