Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This No-Bake Lemon Tart with Raspberries & Basil is the perfect blend of zesty citrus, sweet berries, and a hint of fresh herbs. The creamy lemon filling sits on a crisp, buttery crust, making it a refreshing dessert that requires no oven time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, this tart is as effortless as it is delicious.
Pure Comfort
This tart is pure comfort in every bite. The silky lemon filling melts in your mouth, complemented by the crunch of the crust and the burst of juicy raspberries. The basil adds a subtle, unexpected freshness, elevating the entire dessert.
Ingredients
What You Need
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Time to Cook
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Steps to Make It
1. Make the Crust
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch tart pan, making sure to press firmly along the bottom and sides.
- Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Lemon Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the chilled crust, spreading evenly.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, arrange fresh raspberries on top and sprinkle with chopped basil.
- Drizzle with honey for extra sweetness if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Make It Perfect
- Chill the crust longer: Let the crust set for at least 30 minutes before adding the filling to prevent crumbling.
- Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice won’t give the same bright, fresh flavor.
- Let it set properly: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a firmer texture.
Mix It Up
- Swap the berries: Try strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries instead of raspberries.
- Add a crunchy twist: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or almonds on top.
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free condensed milk substitute.
Perfect Partners
- A glass of chilled limoncello
- A cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint
- Vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat
Busy Day Hero
This is the perfect dessert for busy days! It takes only 15 minutes to prepare, and the rest is just waiting for it to set. No baking, no fuss—just pure, delicious simplicity.
Work Ahead
You can make this tart a day in advance and store it in the fridge until serving time. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it an even tastier treat.
Save Some for Later
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The crust may soften slightly, but the flavors will remain fresh and vibrant.
Everyone’s Happy
This tart is a crowd-pleaser, from kids to adults. The sweet and tangy flavors are universally loved, making it a hit for any occasion.
Good for You Too
- Lemons: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Raspberries: Packed with fiber and essential vitamins.
- Basil: Contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Easy Clean-Up
Since it’s a no-bake dessert, there are fewer dishes to wash! You only need a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a tart pan—minimal mess, maximum flavor.
Switch It Up
- Make it in jars: Turn it into a portable dessert by layering the crust, filling, and toppings in small jars.
- Go chocolatey: Add a layer of melted dark chocolate over the crust before adding the lemon filling.
- Turn it into bars: Press the crust into an 8×8-inch pan and cut into squares for easy serving.
Simply Perfect
This No-Bake Lemon Tart is the ideal dessert—easy, fresh, and bursting with flavor. Whether you make it for a party, a family gathering, or just because, it’s guaranteed to impress.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes! You can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option.
2. What if I don’t have fresh basil?
You can leave it out or replace it with mint for a different herbaceous twist.
3. Can I freeze this tart?
Yes! Freeze it for up to 1 month and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. What if I want a stronger lemon flavor?
Increase the lemon zest or add a few drops of lemon extract to enhance the citrus notes.
5. Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?
Whipped topping can work, but the texture may be slightly different. Fresh whipped cream is best for a creamy, luxurious filling.
6. How do I keep the crust from crumbling?
Press it firmly into the pan and chill it well before adding the filling. You can also add an extra tablespoon of melted butter for more binding power.
7. Can I make mini tarts instead?
Absolutely! Use a muffin tin or mini tart pans for individual portions.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Lemon Tart with Raspberries & Basil is the ultimate refreshing dessert. It’s effortless, elegant, and bursting with bright, fresh flavors. Whether you need a quick dessert for a gathering or a delightful treat for yourself, this tart is simply perfect in every way. Enjoy!
Further Sweet Indulgence
If you enjoyed this No-Bake Lemon Tart with Raspberries & Basil, you’ll love trying out other delightful treats! For another citrusy delight, check out this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake—a perfect balance of tangy and creamy. If you’re a fan of easy, no-bake desserts, don’t miss these No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls, a delicious bite-sized indulgence. Looking for a fruit-forward dessert? Try the Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies, a buttery and vibrant option. For a cheesecake twist, indulge in the White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls—a creamy, chocolatey dream. And if you’re in the mood for another refreshing, no-fuss dessert, the Strawberry Icebox Pie is a must-try!
No-Bake Lemon Tart with Raspberries & Basil
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- 9-inch Tart Pan
- Plastic Wrap
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves chopped
- 1 tbsp honey optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch tart pan, making sure to press firmly along the bottom and sides.
- Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the chilled crust, spreading evenly.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, arrange fresh raspberries on top and sprinkle with chopped basil.
- Drizzle with honey for extra sweetness if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!