Lemonade Dessert in a Glass Dish: Easy, Quick and Super Tasty

This lemonade dessert in a glass dish is easy, quick, and incredibly tasty. Made with milk, lemon, egg yolks, and condensed milk, it’s a creamy homemade dessert everyone loves.

Introduction

This lemonade dessert in a glass dish is one of those recipes that instantly wins hearts. Light, creamy, refreshing, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy, it is a dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy. I often make this dessert when I want something quick yet impressive, and it always disappears faster than expected.

Lemon-based desserts have a long tradition in home cooking because they offer freshness and brightness that other sweets sometimes lack. This recipe combines the smoothness of a classic custard with the lively flavor of fresh lemon juice and zest. The addition of sweetened condensed milk brings richness and sweetness, while cornstarch helps achieve a silky, spoonable texture.

Prepared in a single saucepan and served in a glass dish, this easy lemonade dessert is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or as a refreshing treat after a meal. It is simple enough for beginners and elegant enough to serve to guests.

Recipe Subtitle

A Creamy Lemon Custard Dessert with Condensed Milk

Ingredients

For the Lemon Cream

2 egg yolks
1⅔ cups milk (400 ml)
3 tablespoons sugar (40 g | 1.4 oz)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (15 g | 0.5 oz)
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
Juice of 1 lemon
½ cup sweetened condensed milk (100 g | 3.5 oz)

For Decoration (Optional)

Cinnamon
Cocoa powder
Grated or shaved chocolate

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Serving

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Chilling Time: 2–3 hours
Rest Time: None
Serving: 6–8 portions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a saucepan (off the heat), add the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk well until smooth and free of lumps. This step ensures the custard thickens evenly during cooking.

Step 2: Add the Milk

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Mixing slowly prevents lumps and creates a smooth base for the dessert.

Step 3: Cook the Custard

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook while stirring constantly with a whisk or spatula. After a few minutes, the mixture will begin to thicken into a creamy custard. Do not stop stirring to avoid scorching or curdling.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Condensed Milk

Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat. Immediately add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until fully incorporated and silky smooth.

Adding the lemon off the heat preserves its fresh flavor and prevents bitterness.

Step 5: Transfer to a Glass Dish

Pour the hot lemon cream into a clean glass dish or individual serving cups. Smooth the surface with a spatula.

Step 6: Chill

Allow the dessert to cool slightly at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until fully chilled and set.

Step 7: Decorate and Serve

Before serving, dust the top with cinnamon, cocoa powder, or grated chocolate for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Why This Lemonade Dessert Works So Well

This lemonade dessert balances richness and freshness beautifully. The egg yolks and milk create a smooth custard base, while lemon juice adds brightness and contrast. Sweetened condensed milk softens the acidity and enhances creaminess without overpowering the lemon flavor.

Cornstarch provides structure, allowing the dessert to set perfectly without gelatin or baking. The result is a spoonable dessert that holds its shape while remaining light and creamy.

Texture and Flavor Profile

Once chilled, the dessert has a velvety, pudding-like texture that melts in the mouth. The lemon flavor is fresh and aromatic rather than sharp, making it enjoyable for all ages. Each spoonful is creamy, smooth, and refreshing, especially after a rich meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dessert well chilled directly from the glass dish, or portion it into individual cups for a more elegant presentation. It pairs beautifully with:

Coffee or espresso
Tea
Fresh berries on the side

This dessert is ideal for warm weather but enjoyable year-round.

Storage Tips

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Do not freeze, as the custard texture may change
Keep refrigerated until serving

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220 kcal
Carbohydrates	28 g
Protein	6 g
Fat	9 g
Saturated Fat	4 g
Cholesterol	95 mg
Sodium	75 mg
Fiber	0.5 g
Sugar	22 g
Calcium	150 mg

Best Season

Spring and Summer

Recipe Badges

Quick & Easy, Beginner-Friendly, Family Favorite, Make-Ahead Dessert

Dietaries

Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Lemonade Dessert in a Glass Dish: Easy, Quick and Super Tasty

Introduction

Recipe Subtitle