Looking for a quick and nostalgic dessert that never fails to please a crowd? This easy no-bake lemon slice is a timeless classic — creamy, zesty, sweet and incredibly simple to make with just a few pantry staples.

Whether it’s for a school bake-sale, morning tea, BBQ, or just a sweet craving, this slice is guaranteed to disappear fast. No oven, no fuss — just that signature lemon zing and a chewy coconut biscuit base that hits all the right notes.

Why We Love This Lemon Slice

If you grew up in Australia, you’ve probably had a piece of lemon slice at some point — passed around at family BBQ’s, wrapped in foil for lunchboxes, or proudly placed on the table at a weekend morning tea.

Related: Creamy Lemon Crumble Bars

This dessert stands the test of time because it’s no bake and super easy, it uses affordable ingredients you likely already have, it offers the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and citrus zing and is endlessly adaptable to your taste.

Ingredients

For the base:

250g plain sweet biscuits (Marie, Arrowroot or similar)

125g unsalted or salted butter, melted

1 tin (395g) of sweetened condensed milk

Juice of 1 lemon (around 3 tablespoons). Fresh is best, but bottled will work in a pinch. Or you can swap it for lime juice for a tropical twist!

1 cup of desiccated coconut (plus extra for topping, optional)

For the icing:

1 ½ cups icing sugar mixture

40 g unsalted butter, melted

2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Method

Use a food processor or place the biscuits in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin until they resemble fine crumbs.

In a large bowl, combine biscuit crumbs with melted butter, condensed milk, coconut and lemon juice. Mix until fully combined.

Line a slice tin with baking paper and press the mixture firmly and evenly into the base. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.

Whisk together icing sugar, room temperature butter, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

Spread icing over the chilled base. Sprinkle with extra coconut if desired.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set. Once firm, slice and enjoy.

Lemon Slice Tips

Want a Punchier Citrus Hit?

Add some finely grated lemon zest to both the base and icing.

For Cleaner Slices

Dip your knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts.

Make It Ahead

This slice stores well in the fridge in an air-tight container for up to 5 days, making it perfect for prepping in advance.

Freezer Storage

You can freeze in an air-tight container (with baking paper between layers) for up to 2 months.

So, next time you’re asked to bring a plate, skip the stress and whip up this classic lemon slice. No oven, no fuss. Just creamy, citrusy goodness that everyone will love.

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