Thank you so much for stopping by! If your sweet tooth is calling and you’ve got no time—or let’s be real, no energy—to bake, this No-Bake Lemon Vanilla Custard is your new best friend. It’s creamy, citrusy, full of cozy vanilla notes, and made with just a few simple ingredients. Plus, it chills to perfection in the fridge while you go do literally anything else. We love a lazy genius dessert!

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What Is No-Bake Lemon Vanilla Custard?

This no-bake custard is a silky-smooth, spoonable dessert made with lemon juice, vanilla, and sweetened condensed milk. It thickens up with a little help from whipped cream—no eggs, no oven, no stress. Just whisk, chill, and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No oven required!
Ready to chill in minutes
Light, creamy, and citrusy-bright
Perfect for make-ahead dessert moments
Made with pantry staples + fresh lemon

What It Tastes Like

This custard is lemon dessert bliss. Bright but not sour, sweet but not too rich, and silky in texture with a hint of vanilla warmth. It’s like a lemon mousse and a cloud got together and made the perfect spoon dessert.

Ingredients

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
½ cup lemon juice (fresh is best!)
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract or ½ tsp vanilla bean paste
1 cup cold heavy cream

Optional toppings:
Crushed vanilla cookies, whipped cream, fresh berries, mint, or extra lemon zest

Tools You’ll Need

Medium mixing bowl
Hand mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Citrus zester
Ramekins or serving jars
Spatula

Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins

Swap heavy cream with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version
Sub lime juice for a tropical take
Fold in crushed graham crackers or shortbread for texture
Add a layer of lemon curd in the middle for extra lemon love

How to Make No-Bake Lemon Vanilla Custard

Step 1: Make the Base

Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla in a bowl until fully combined and slightly thick.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream to medium peaks using a hand mixer or whisk.

Step 3: Combine

Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until smooth and airy.

Step 4: Chill

Spoon into ramekins or jars. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours, or until set.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Top with cookie crumbles, zest, or berries. Serve cold—and prepare for the compliments!

What to Serve With It

This custard is stunning all on its own, but also pairs beautifully with:

Shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers
Mint sprigs or lemon zest curls on top
A cozy drink like tea or lemonade

Want to serve it as part of a dessert spread? Try:

Magic Lemon Cobbler – baked lemon goodness with a gooey center
Sweetened Condensed Snowballs – buttery cookies that melt in your mouth
Cinnamon Rolls – sweet brunch treat meets comfort classic

Tips for Success

Use fresh lemon juice—the flavor is unmatched
Whip cream to medium peaks for the dreamiest texture
Chill overnight if possible for best set
For an ultra-smooth finish, strain the lemon mix before folding in the whipped cream

Storage Notes

Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Not recommended—texture becomes grainy after thawing
Make ahead: Best made the day before serving for flavor + firmness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without heavy cream?

Yes! Use whipped coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping if needed.

Can I make it sweeter or more tart?

Absolutely—adjust with more lemon juice or a touch of extra condensed milk to taste.

Can I make a larger batch?

Yes! Double or triple the recipe and portion into cups or a trifle-style bowl.

Wrapping It All Up

This No-Bake Lemon Vanilla Custard is the quick, dreamy dessert that’s equal parts elegant and effortless. Whether you’re serving a crowd or sneaking spoonfuls straight from the fridge (zero judgment here), this lemony little wonder will keep you coming back.

Need more lemon love and no-fuss desserts? Try:

Whip this up? You know I want to see it! 🍋
Tag me on Pinterest @TheKitchenJoyy and post your dessert with #Mmmrecipes—can’t wait to celebrate your lemony masterpiece!