Looking for a creamy, zesty, and refreshing low-carb dessert that brings all the bold flavor of fresh lemon—without sugar or unnecessary carbs? This Keto Lemon Dessert is exactly what you need. With its silky texture, bright citrus finish, and rich mascarpone topping, this no-bake version delivers all the richness of classic lemon tarts—in a keto-approved, gluten-free format.
Perfect for meal prep , holiday baking , or when you’re craving something sweet but staying in ketosis, this easy-to-make recipe uses simple ingredients like almond flour, erythritol-sweetened lemon curd, and heavy cream to bring bold bakery-style flavor into your kitchen. Whether you’re doing strict ketosis , following a low-carb lifestyle , or simply love fruity desserts with depth and richness, this keto lemon dessert will quickly become a go-to treat in your fridge rotation.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this perfect keto lemon dessert from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s dive into the world of soft, spoonable, lemon-infused bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Keto Lemon Dessert
This isn’t just any old fruit dip—it’s a tangy, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold flavor and satisfying texture together beautifully—in under 20 minutes!
Here’s why it stands out:
- 🍋 Bold lemon flavor : Made with fresh zest and juice for vibrant brightness.
- 🧀 Creamy cheese base : Uses mascarpone or cream cheese for richness and body.
- 🥣 Easy to make : Just blend everything until smooth—no cooking required!
- ⏱️ Ready in under 15–20 minutes
- 🧁 Great for gifting or storing
- 🧼 Minimal cleanup : One bowl = zero mess!
- 🐄 Dairy-free option available
Whether you’re making it for yourself after dinner, packing for lunch, or sharing at a weekend brunch, this lemon dessert will quickly become a go-to handheld snack or breakfast item.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup crushed pork rinds or flaxseed meal (for binding and crunch)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or butter
Optional: Crushed pecans or cacao nibs for extra fiber and crunch
For the Lemon Layer:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese or softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream or full-fat coconut cream
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Tip: Add 1 tbsp lime juice or orange zest for exotic contrast
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream or coconut whipped cream
- Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish
- A drizzle of lemon-ginger syrup for extra punch
Optional: Toasted almonds or edible gold dust for festive flair
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Press the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Almond flour
- Crushed pork rinds
- Salt
- Powdered sweetener
Add melted coconut oil or butter and stir until a soft dough forms.
Press firmly into an 8×8-inch lined pan or individual silicone molds.
Chill while preparing the next layer.
Pro Tip: Use a food processor for smoother crust if needed.
Step 2: Beat the Lemon Filling
In a large bowl, beat mascarpone cheese or cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
Gradually add powdered sweetener and vanilla extract.
Gently whip heavy cream or coconut cream separately until stiff peaks form.
Fold into the mascarpone mixture in batches to keep it light and airy.
Add lemon zest and juice; mix well.
Note: Don’t overmix—keep some texture for visual appeal.
Step 3: Layer and Chill
Pour the lemon mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours , or overnight for best results.
The longer it rests, the richer and more luxurious it becomes.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve!
Before serving, top with:
- A dollop of whipped cream
- Fresh mint leaves or lemon slices
- Crushed nuts or edible flowers
- A sprinkle of powdered sweetener
Slice into squares or scoop into mason jars.
Enjoy every creamy, citrus-scented bite of your Keto Lemon Dessert !
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 8 Servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~14 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~7 g |
| Cholesterol | ~40 mg |
| Sodium | ~120 mg |
| Total Carbs | ~6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~2 g |
| Net Carbs | ~4 g |
| Protein | ~6 g |
Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.
Tips for the Best Keto Lemon Dessert
- Use high-quality mascarpone or cream cheese – Ensures smooth blending without lumps.
- Don’t skip resting time – The flavors develop beautifully after chilling.
- Layer spices early – Helps build complex taste during cooling.
- Make ahead and store – Keeps best refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Double the batch for future meals – Great for freezing and reheating later!
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
No-Bake Energy Bites
Chill the mixture and roll into balls for grab-and-go snacks.
Lemon Mousse Style
Whip extra cream and fold in for lighter, airier texture.
Vegan Option
Use blended tofu or cashew-based cheese and plant-based oils for dairy-free magic.
Coconut Lovers’ Version
Replace mascarpone with coconut cream and add shredded coconut to the crust.
Lime Twist
Swap lemon with lime zest and juice for a tropical green twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this truly keto-friendly?
Yes! With only ~4g net carbs per serving , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use regular flour or sugar?
Not recommended—standard flour and sugar will increase carb count significantly.
How do I store leftover dessert?
Store cooled portions covered in the fridge for up to 4 days . Freeze slices for longer storage.
What kind of lemon works best?
Meyer lemons give a sweeter, softer flavor; standard lemons deliver bolder tartness.
Can I make mini versions?
Yes! Fill ramekins, parfait cups, or silicone muffin cups for personal-sized bites.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This Keto Lemon Dessert works because of its perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:
- The almond flour gives body and crunch , mimicking wheat-based bases without grains.
- The lemon zest and juice deliver signature acidity , balancing the richness naturally.
- And the powdered sweetener blends in seamlessly , giving a classic sugary finish without the crash.
It’s the kind of snack that makes eating seasonal produce feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for creative ways to serve your keto lemon dessert beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:
In Lunchboxes
Pack with veggies, meat, or cheese for a balanced keto lunch.
At a Kids’ Party
Cut into small cubes and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer bites.
With Coffee or Tea
Pair with espresso, black coffee, or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Gift-Worthy Packaging
Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and tie with twine for thoughtful homemade gifts.
Over Greek Yogurt
Top full-fat yogurt with crumbled filling and fresh berries for extra richness.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dessert special:
Lemon
High in vitamin C and antioxidants—supports immunity and digestion.
Mascarpone / Cream Cheese
Rich in calcium and healthy fats—important for brain function and satiety.
Coconut Oil / Butter
Provides fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K—great for hormone production and energy.
Even though this is a dessert, it’s packed with nutrients that make it more than just a treat—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Treat for Citrus Lovers
This Keto Lemon Dessert proves that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, comforting flavors. With its silky texture, deep citrus notes, and creamy finish, it’s the kind of treat that turns a simple mousse into something magical—even without sugar or flour.
Whether you’re new to keto baking, looking for a fast summer snack idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, this lemon dessert deserves a spot in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.
So go ahead—whip up a batch, share it with friends, or savor it solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.
Print
Keto Lemon Dessert – Silky, Tangy & Perfectly Low-Carb!
- Total Time: 45 mins
Description
A heavenly blend of creamy cheesecake, zesty lemon, and whipped goodness!
Ingredients
4.5 ounces (127.57 g) keto vanilla wafers
1/4 cup (56.75 g) butter, melted
8 ounces (226.8 g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (118.29 g) Swerve Confectioners
1/4 cup (59.15 ml) lemon juice
2 to 3 tbsp (2 tbsp) heavy whipping cream 1 recipe keto lemon curd
3/4 cup (177.44 ml) heavy whipping cream, chilled 3 tbsp Swerve Confectioners
1/2 tsp (0.5 tsp) vanilla extract
Instructions
Crust
Place the vanilla wafers in a food processor and process until they resemble crumbs. You can also crush them in a ziplock bag. Transfer to an 8×8 inch pan and drizzle with the melted butter. Mix well to combine and then press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan. Freeze while preparing the filling.
Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, about 2 minutes. Beat in the sweetener and lemon juice until well combined. Add the cream a little at a time until a nice spreadable consistency is achieved. Spread over the chilled crust and return to the freezer.
Lemon Layer
Prepare the lemon curd according to the directions, if you haven’t already. Spread over the cheesecake filling and return to the freezer.
Whipped Topping
In a large bowl, beat the whipping cream with the sweetener and vanilla until it holds stiff peaks. Spread over the lemon layer and return to the freezer. Freeze at least 2 hours to help it set before cutting into servings.
Notes
Storage information: You can store Lemon Lush in either the refrigerator or the freezer. In both cases, wrap it up tightly. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or the freezer for up to 2 months. Let it thaw completely before serving.
Sweetener options: You can use a number of sweetener here but I do find that using allulose makes the cheesecake filling and the whipped topping very soft. They don’t firm up as well and the pieces come out a little messier. But it does work! Since this is not a baked recipe, make sure you are using sweeteners that dissolve well. I recommend powdered sweeteners like Swerve Confectioners or concentrated liquid sweeteners like stevia extract.
- Prep Time: 35 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 266
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 3.7g
- Protein: 4.5g