Lemon Dessert | Quick, Creamy, and Irresistible

This 5-ingredient lemon dessert is silky, refreshing, and served right inside a lemon! A no-bake treat with a creamy texture and vibrant citrus flavour. Ready in minutes, then chilled to perfection — it’s the easiest way to impress your guests.

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About This Dessert

This creamy lemon dessert is a classic example of Italian simplicity — just a few ingredients, no baking, and a burst of citrus freshness. The cream thickens beautifully with the acidity of the lemon juice, creating a luscious, pudding-like texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, serving it in lemon shells makes it both eco-friendly and eye-catching!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Cream:	400 ml (1 ⅔ cups)
Fresh Lemon Juice:	90 ml (6 tbsp)
White Sugar:	90 g (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp)
Corn Starch:	1 tsp
Vanilla Extract (optional):	1 tsp

How to Make It

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 5 mins | Chill Time: 2 hrs

Step 1: Cut lemons in half and carefully remove the pulp, keeping the shells intact.
Step 2: In a pot, bring cream and sugar to a boil, stirring constantly.
Step 3: As soon as it starts boiling, remove from heat.
Step 4: Add lemon juice, corn starch, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Pour the mixture evenly into the hollow lemon shells.
Step 6: Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
Step 7: Serve straight from the lemon shells — creamy, zesty, and refreshing!

Tucci’s Tips

Use fresh lemons for maximum aroma and natural acidity.

For extra creaminess, use thickened or heavy cream.

You can add grated lemon zest for a stronger citrus punch.

Variations

Chocolate Lemon Twist: Drizzle melted white chocolate on top before serving.
Berry Burst: Add a spoonful of raspberry sauce for contrast and colour.
Limoncello Infusion: Replace part of the lemon juice with Limoncello for a boozy version.

Did You Know?

Historical Fact: Lemon-based desserts are deeply rooted in Southern Italian cuisine, especially along the Amalfi Coast where lemon groves stretch for miles. Locals have been crafting lemon creams and sorbets since the 1600s.

Fun Fact: In Naples, serving desserts inside fruits — like lemons or oranges — is considered a sign of elegance and respect for nature’s own “plate.”

Share Your Dessert!

Did you make this recipe? Share your lemon dessert creations on Instagram or TikTok and tag @cooking.with.tucci — I’d love to see your version!

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Storage & Thank You

Keep your lemon desserts refrigerated and covered for up to 3 days. They’re best served chilled straight from the fridge.

Can it be frozen? No — freezing changes the creamy texture. Always enjoy fresh and cold.

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