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No-bake lemon tart with raspberries and basil on a wooden table

No-Bake Lemon Tart with Raspberries & Basil

A refreshing no-bake dessert featuring a creamy lemon filling, a buttery crumb crust, and topped with fresh raspberries and basil.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Dessert, Treat
Cuisine French, Global
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the crust

  • 1.5 cups digestive biscuit crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs) providing a delightful crunch.
  • 0.25 cups unsalted butter, melted adding rich creaminess to the crust.

For the filling

  • 2 cups heavy cream resulting in a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth.
  • 1 cup mascarpone cheese which brings a luxurious, creamy depth.
  • 0.5 cups fresh lemon juice infusing every bite with a zesty brightness.
  • Zest of 2 lemons zest of 2 lemons enhancing the aromatic lemon flavor.
  • 0.25 cups powdered sugar for just the right hint of sweetness.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract offering a warm undertone that rounds out the flavors.

For the topping

  • 0.5 cups fresh raspberries bursting with juicy sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, finely chopped lending a unique herbal freshness.
  • as needed fresh basil sprigs for garnish adding a beautiful touch to your presentation.

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust

  • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the digestive biscuit crumbs and melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are well-coated with the buttery mixture.
  • Press this crumb mixture firmly into the base of a tart pan, ensuring an even layer.
  • Place the pan in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to set.

Make the Filling

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mascarpone cheese, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Tart

  • Pour the creamy lemon mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing the top gently with a spatula.
  • Refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.

Garnish and Serve

  • Scatter fresh raspberries and finely chopped basil leaves over the top.
  • Garnish with sprigs of fresh basil and slice into generous pieces.

Notes

Allowing the tart to set overnight ensures a firmer texture and more intense flavor. Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother filling, and avoid over-mixing to maintain lightness.
Keyword Dessert, Lemon Tart, No-Bake Lemon Tart, Raspberry Tart, Summer Dessert