Hey y'all! Craving a dessert that's equal parts luscious, refreshing, and stunning to look at? This No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart is your ticket to sweet-tart bliss, with a crisp cookie crust and creamy, fruity swirls—no oven required. It's a fabulous choice for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a cool treat without heating up the kitchen. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
- No baking needed: Perfect for hot days or when you want a fuss-free dessert.
- Vibrant flavors: The zesty lemon pairs beautifully with sweet strawberries for a fresh, tangy taste.
- Show-stopping presentation: The pretty berry swirl makes this tart a visual centerpiece.
- Simple ingredients: Made with staple pantry and fridge items—no fancy tools needed.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and chill until you're ready to serve!
Ingredients for No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoon (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (120g) Greek yogurt or sour cream
- ⅓ cup (80ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) whipping cream, cold
- 1 cup (150g) fresh strawberries, hulled
- 2 tablespoon (25g) granulated sugar (for strawberries)
How to Make No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
Step 1: Prepare the No-Bake Tart Crust
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined and sandy.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable base. Use the bottom of a glass to compact it tightly.
- Chill in the freezer for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Swirl
- In a blender or food processor, puree strawberries with 2 tablespoon granulated sugar until smooth.
- Pour through a fine mesh sieve into a small bowl to remove seeds. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling
- Using a hand or stand mixer, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy and combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold whipping cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into the lemon cream mixture until smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
- Spread the lemon cream filling evenly into the chilled crust.
- Dollop spoonfuls of strawberry puree on top. Using a skewer or butter knife, gently swirl the puree into the filling for a marbled effect.
- Chill tart in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
Notes for No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
- Chilling the crust ensures it stays crisp and holds its shape; don’t skip this step!
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer, creamier filling (Bon Appétit: Cream Cheese Buying Guide).
- For the smoothest texture, blend your strawberries thoroughly and strain well.

No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart Variations
- Berry Medley Swirl: Substitute half the strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry swirl tart.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Dairy-Free: Swap in vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for a plant-based treat.
Required Equipment for No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
- 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Blender or food processor
- Fine mesh sieve
- Rubber spatula
- Skewer or butter knife (for swirling)
Storage Instructions for No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
Store the tart, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze (well-wrapped) for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings for No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
- Serve chilled, garnished with extra fresh strawberries, lemon zest, or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a crisp glass of Prosecco or iced tea for a refreshing combo.
- Enjoy alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert plate.
Pro Tips for Perfect No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
- Use very cold whipping cream for best volume and stability (Serious Eats: How to Make Whipped Cream).
- Chill the tart overnight for the cleanest slices and a firmer set.
- Run your knife under hot water and dry between cuts for picture-perfect servings.
FAQ: No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
- Can I use frozen strawberries?
- Yes, thaw frozen strawberries completely and drain excess liquid before pureeing.
- Can I make the tart a day ahead?
- Absolutely—this tart sets even better when made in advance and chilled overnight.
- What if I don’t have a tart pan?
- You can use a 9-inch pie plate, though the edges may not be as crisp.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup lemon curd
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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1In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
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2Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
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3In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, lemon juice, and powdered sugar. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the strawberries are soft. Mash and let cool completely.
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4In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, lemon curd, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and well combined.
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5Spread the lemon cream filling evenly over the chilled crust. Spoon the cooled strawberry mixture over the top and use a knife to gently swirl it into the filling.
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6Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours or until set. Slice and serve chilled.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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