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Greek Yogurt Lemon Cups

A no-bake dessert with a crisp, buttery crust, creamy Greek yogurt-lemon filling, and a tangy lemon curd topping. Perfect for a quick, refreshing treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • For the crust: 1 cup 90g graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets), 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter, melted, 1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
  • For the filling: 1 cup 240g plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%), 1/4 cup (60g) cream cheese, softened, 3 tablespoons (45ml) fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon), 1 tablespoon (6g) lemon zest, 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the lemon curd topping: 1 large egg 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon (6g) lemon zest, 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Equipment

  • 4 (4-ounce) ramekins or small cups
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • fine-mesh sieve
  • small saucepan
  • parchment paper (optional)

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. 2. Divide the crumb mixture evenly among 4 ramekins (about 2 tablespoons each). Press firmly into an even layer on the bottom using the back of a spoon or a small glass. Place in the refrigerator to chill while you make the filling. 3. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a whisk until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and vanilla. Whisk until completely combined and creamy, about 1 minute. 4. Spoon the yogurt filling over the chilled crusts, dividing evenly. Smooth the tops. Return to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, until set. 5. Meanwhile, make the lemon curd: In a small saucepan, whisk together the egg, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 4–5 minutes. Do not let it boil—if you see bubbles, reduce heat immediately. 6. Remove from heat and whisk in the cold butter cubes, one at a time, until smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a small bowl to remove any cooked egg bits. Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until needed. 7. Once the cups are fully chilled, spoon a thin layer of lemon curd over each (about 1 tablespoon per cup). Return to the fridge for another 30 minutes to set the curd. 8. Serve cold. Garnish with fresh mint or a pinch of lemon zest if desired.

Notes

Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The crust may soften slightly over time. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed almonds. This recipe contains dairy and eggs. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and coconut cream in place of cream cheese. Always handle hot stovetop and saucepan handles with care.