13 Quick Lemon Desserts You Can Make in Under 20 Minutes

When you're in the mood for something sweet and refreshing, lemon desserts are a perfect choice. This collection features quick and easy recipes that can be whipped up in under 20 minutes, making them ideal for those busy days or sudden cravings. Whether you're entertaining guests or treating yourself, these lemony delights will add a burst of flavor without a lengthy prep time.

Zesty Lemon Mug Cake For Quick Indulgence

If you're craving something sweet and tangy, this zesty lemon mug cake is just what you need. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for satisfying that dessert urge in under 20 minutes. The bright yellow color and fluffy texture make it a delightful treat. Just imagine digging into a warm, lemony cake topped with a slice of fresh lemon. It’s a simple indulgence that feels special.

This mug cake is made with basic ingredients you probably already have at home. The best part? You can whip it up in a matter of minutes, making it ideal for those late-night cravings or unexpected guests. Plus, it’s baked right in your mug, so cleanup is a breeze!

Ready to make your own zesty lemon mug cake? Here’s how:

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• 1 lemon slice for garnish

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the milk, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until smooth.
3. Microwave on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds, or until the cake has risen and is set in the middle.
4. Let it cool for a minute before dusting with powdered sugar and adding a slice of lemon on top.
5. Enjoy your quick and zesty lemon mug cake!

Tangy Lemon Pudding Cups Ready In Minutes

These tangy lemon pudding cups are a delightful treat that you can whip up in no time. The creamy texture and zesty flavor make them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Just look at those lovely cups topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a slice of lemon. They’re not only tasty but also visually appealing!

Making these pudding cups is super easy. You only need a few ingredients, and the best part is that they can be ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. The bright lemon flavor will surely brighten your day!

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream for topping
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a little of the hot milk mixture to the yolks to temper them, then whisk the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
3. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the pudding into serving cups and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set.
5. Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with lemon slices.

Quick Lemon Shortbread Cookies For A Sweet Treat

These quick lemon shortbread cookies are a delightful treat that you can whip up in no time. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the buttery goodness of shortbread. Imagine biting into a soft, sweet cookie that melts in your mouth, leaving a refreshing hint of citrus. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual snack or a special dessert.

The cookies are shaped like stars, adding a fun touch to your dessert table. Topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar, they look as good as they taste. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing until combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow the cookies to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Enjoy your sweet lemony treats!

Instant Lemon Cheesecake Parfaits To Impress

These Instant Lemon Cheesecake Parfaits are a delightful treat that anyone can whip up in no time. Picture creamy layers of lemon cheesecake filling paired with crunchy graham cracker crumbs, all served in a charming glass. The bright yellow lemon slices on top add a fresh touch, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Perfect for gatherings or a quick dessert fix, these parfaits are sure to impress your guests. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet cream cheese creates a refreshing flavor that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup whipped cream
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth.
2. Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the whipped cream until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. In serving glasses, layer the lemon cheesecake filling and graham cracker crumbs alternately.
5. Top with a slice of lemon for garnish and a sprinkle of extra crumbs.
6. Chill for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Lemon Curd Tarts Made In Minutes

Lemon curd tarts are a delightful treat that you can whip up in no time. These little pastries are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while offering a refreshing zing from the lemon. The image shows beautifully arranged tarts topped with fresh raspberries and blueberries, making them not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Making these tarts is a breeze. You can use store-bought tart shells to save time. The lemon curd is the star of the show, providing a creamy and tangy filling that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the berries. These tarts are great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in.

Let’s get to the recipe so you can enjoy these delicious lemon curd tarts!

Ingredients

• 1 package of pre-made tart shells
• 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh raspberries
• Fresh blueberries
• Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tart Shells: If using frozen tart shells, bake them according to package instructions until golden brown. Allow them to cool.
2. Fill with Lemon Curd: Spoon the lemon curd into each cooled tart shell, filling them generously.
3. Add Berries: Top each tart with a mix of fresh raspberries and blueberries for a pop of color and flavor.
4. Garnish: Add a small mint leaf on each tart for a fresh touch.
5. Serve: Enjoy these tarts immediately, or chill them in the fridge for a bit before serving.

Quick Lemon Meringue Cups For A Tangy Twist

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s quick and easy, lemon meringue cups are a perfect choice. These delightful little desserts pack a punch of tangy lemon flavor, topped with a fluffy meringue that’s lightly toasted for that perfect finish. They’re not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great option for any gathering or just a cozy night in.

The bright yellow filling contrasts beautifully with the white meringue, creating a stunning presentation. Each cup is a mini dessert that’s easy to handle and enjoy. Plus, they take less than 20 minutes to whip up, which is a win for anyone with a busy schedule!

Let’s get started on making these delightful lemon meringue cups!

Ingredients

• 1 cup lemon curd
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Graham cracker crumbs (for the base)
• Fresh lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In small cups or ramekins, add a layer of graham cracker crumbs to form the base.
2. Fill with Lemon Curd: Spoon lemon curd over the crumbs, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
3. Make the Meringue: In a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Top the Cups: Spoon or pipe the meringue over the lemon curd, covering it completely.
5. Toast the Meringue: Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue until golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the cups under a broiler for a minute or two, watching closely to prevent burning.
6. Chill and Serve: Let the cups cool slightly, then refrigerate until ready to serve. Garnish with fresh lemon slices before enjoying!

Easy Lemon Yogurt Cake For A Quick Bake

This lemon yogurt cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s light, moist, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. The cake is topped with a creamy frosting and garnished with fresh berries, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. The combination of yogurt and lemon creates a lovely texture that melts in your mouth.

Making this cake is a breeze. You can whip it up in under 20 minutes, which is ideal for those busy days when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for frosting)
• Fresh berries for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, sugar, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add in the vegetable oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting by mixing powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
7. Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting on top and garnish with fresh berries.
8. Slice and serve your delicious lemon yogurt cake!

Quick Lemon Rice Pudding For A Comforting Dessert

Lemon rice pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. This creamy treat is perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet yet comforting. The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing zing, making it a wonderful choice for any occasion.

In the image, you can see a bowl of smooth lemon rice pudding, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a twist of lemon peel. The presentation is simple yet inviting, with a cozy spoon resting beside the bowl. Fresh flowers and a halved lemon in the background add a cheerful touch, enhancing the overall appeal.

This dessert is not only quick to prepare but also uses ingredients you likely have on hand. It’s a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked rice
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a twist of lemon peel.

Instant Lemon Chia Pudding For A Healthy Treat

If you're looking for a quick and healthy dessert, this lemon chia pudding is a winner. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. The vibrant colors of the fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries make it visually appealing too. The lemon adds a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the chia seeds.

This pudding is not only delicious but also super easy to make. Just mix your ingredients, let them sit, and you’re good to go! Serve it in a cute jar for a fun presentation. It’s perfect for a snack or a light dessert after dinner.

Here’s how to whip up this delightful treat:

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh strawberries, sliced
• Fresh blueberries
• Fresh raspberries
• Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, honey, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine.
2. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.
4. Once thickened, layer the chia pudding with fresh fruit in a jar or bowl.
5. Top with mint leaves for a refreshing touch. Enjoy your healthy lemon chia pudding!

Quick Lemon Bars For A Classic Delight

Lemon bars are a timeless treat that brings a burst of sunshine to any dessert table. These bars are bright, tangy, and sweet, making them a perfect choice for a quick dessert. The image showcases a beautifully baked tray of lemon bars, dusted with powdered sugar, and surrounded by fresh lemons. The warm, inviting colors of the bars contrast nicely with the vibrant yellow of the lemons, creating an appealing visual.

Making lemon bars is simple and can be done in under 20 minutes. They are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet snack at home. The combination of buttery crust and zesty lemon filling is sure to please everyone. Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until smooth.
5. Add Filling to Crust: Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust and return to the oven.
6. Bake Again: Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the lemon bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar, cut into squares, and serve.

Lemon Panna Cotta For A Luxurious Treat

Lemon panna cotta is a delightful dessert that brings a touch of luxury to any occasion. This creamy treat is not only quick to make but also bursting with bright lemon flavor. The image showcases beautiful panna cotta cups topped with fresh berries, making it visually appealing and inviting.

To prepare this dessert, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The panna cotta itself is smooth and silky, and the addition of lemon zest enhances its freshness. Topped with vibrant raspberries and blueberries, it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate!

Here’s how to whip up this elegant dessert in no time:

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Fresh berries for topping

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it blooms.
2. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, but do not let it boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined.
4. Pour the mixture into serving cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
5. Once set, top with fresh berries before serving. Enjoy your refreshing lemon panna cotta!

Quick Lemon And Berry Parfait For A Bright Snack

Brighten up your day with a quick lemon and berry parfait! This delightful treat combines layers of creamy yogurt, zesty lemon curd, and fresh berries. It's not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a snack or a light dessert, this parfait is a refreshing way to enjoy the goodness of fruits.

The layers of vibrant berries, including raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, create a beautiful contrast against the smooth, tangy lemon curd. The yogurt adds a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the lemon. You can easily whip this up in under 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup lemon curd
• 1 cup mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. In a glass or bowl, start with a layer of Greek yogurt at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of lemon curd on top of the yogurt.
3. Next, add a layer of mixed berries.
4. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the glass, finishing with berries.
5. If desired, drizzle honey over the top for extra sweetness.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.

Instant Lemon Coconut Bars For A Tropical Twist

These Instant Lemon Coconut Bars are a delightful treat that brings a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. With their bright lemon flavor and a hint of coconut, they are perfect for a quick dessert. The bars are beautifully topped with fresh lemon slices and shredded coconut, making them visually appealing and refreshing.

Making these bars is a breeze. You can whip them up in under 20 minutes, making them ideal for unexpected guests or a sweet craving. The combination of zesty lemon and creamy coconut gives each bite a tropical vibe, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Extra lemon slices and coconut for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until smooth. Pour this mixture over the crust.
4. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
5. Top with extra lemon slices and shredded coconut before serving. Enjoy your tropical treat!