No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart is the ultimate summer dessert. It’s creamy, tart, and sweet all at once, offering a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love. The combination of the lemon filling and fresh strawberries creates a tangy yet refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery, crumbly crust. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require any baking, making it a perfect choice for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a hassle-free dessert that still looks impressive.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuit crumbs)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the lemon filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks

For the strawberry swirl:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the crust:

   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.

   • Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly coated and resembles wet sand.

   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press it down evenly.

   • Chill the crust in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set.

2. Make the lemon filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.

   • Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until fully combined.

   • Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. The mixture should be light and fluffy.

3. Make the strawberry swirl:

   • In a blender or food processor, puree the fresh strawberries with the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.

   • If the puree is too thick, you can add a little water to thin it out, but be sure it’s not too runny.

4. Assemble the tart:

   • Pour the lemon filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

   • Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small spoonfuls of the strawberry puree onto the lemon filling. You can add as much or as little as you like, depending on how strong you want the strawberry flavor.

   • Use a toothpick, skewer, or butter knife to gently swirl the strawberry puree into the lemon filling, creating a beautiful marbled effect.

5. Chill the tart:

   • Refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve:

   • Before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberry slices or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

   • Slice and enjoy this creamy, tangy, and sweet dessert!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight

Variations

• Fruit Topping: In addition to the strawberry swirl, top the tart with fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even slices of kiwi for added texture and color.

• Graham Cracker Substitute: If you’re not a fan of graham crackers, you can substitute the crust with crushed cookies like vanilla wafers or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream (or another non-dairy whipped topping) to make this tart dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The tart is best enjoyed within a few days of making it.

• Freezing: You can freeze the tart for up to a month. Be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap and foil. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the swirl?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery swirl.

2. Can I make the tart ahead of time?

Absolutely! This tart is actually best made ahead of time as it needs time to chill and set. Make it a day or two before serving for the best texture and flavor.

3. Can I make the crust without butter?

If you prefer to make a vegan or dairy-free crust, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or another dairy-free butter substitute.

4. What can I do if my lemon filling is too thick?

If the lemon filling is too thick, you can add a little extra lemon juice or some milk to reach the desired consistency.

5. How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, ensure that you press it tightly into the pan and let it chill for at least 30 minutes before adding the filling. This helps it firm up and keeps it from absorbing moisture from the filling.

6. Can I use a different citrus for the filling?

Yes! You can swap the lemon juice for lime juice or orange juice for a different citrus twist.

7. How can I make the strawberry swirl more vibrant?

For a more vibrant color, add a little bit of red food coloring to the strawberry puree. Just be sure to add it sparingly so it doesn’t overpower the natural flavor.

8. Can I use a pre-made crust?

Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust to save time, but making your own gives the tart a fresher, more homemade flavor.

9. Can I use regular whipped cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use regular whipped cream, but make sure it’s unsweetened if you’re using it to mix into the lemon filling.

10. Can I serve the tart frozen?

This tart can be served slightly frozen for a more ice-cream-like texture. If you choose to do this, just let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut.

Conclusion

The No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart is a light, refreshing, and visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its buttery graham cracker crust, creamy lemon filling, and beautiful strawberry swirl, it’s a dessert that will both impress and satisfy. Easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful, this tart is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer without turning on the oven.