A grating of lemon zest or a swirl of lemon curd can instantly lift any dessert and take it from bland to brilliantly fresh in a second. Don't overlook that bag of lemons in your fridge or fruit bowl, make them into something special and satisfy your citrus cravings.

Advertisement

For more classic zesty bakes, check out our collection of lemon dessert recipes, orange recipes and grapefruit recipes. Now discover our lemon cakes and more summer baking inspiration.

1. Classic lemon drizzle

Lemon drizzle loaf cake topped with icing

This traditional bake is as simple as mixing your storecupboard basics and pouring a drizzle onto the warm sponge. Our five-star lemon drizzle recipe has just five key ingredients and is so easy, anyone can whip up a couple of loaves. For another fruity slice, try our lemon curd & blueberry loaf cake.

We've got even more lemon drizzle-inspired recipes for you to try, from cupcakes and traybakes to scones and crêpes.

2. Lemon meringue pie

Slice of lemon meringue pie

Our ultimate lemon meringue pie has it all: golden pastry, a crisp outer shell and a soft and fluffy lemon filling. Whip the meringue into stiff peaks and let it crisp and colour in the oven for a slice of pure indulgence.

More like this

Following a plant-based diet? We've got the ultimate vegan lemon meringue pie for you to try. Recreate some of the best bakes of the past few decades with our retro dessert recipes.

3. Baked lemon cheesecake

Baked lemon cheesecake topped with raspberries

This light baked lemon cheesecake topped with fresh raspberries is a simple but effective dinner party pudding. Try adding crushed ginger biscuits to the base to complement the touch of lemon in the filling. Not too heavy, this cheesecake is a steadfast sweet favourite. For an oven-free version, try our no-bake lemon cheesecake and for a plant-based variation, discover our vegan lemon cheesecake recipe.

Treat yourself to more decadent cheesecake recipes.

4. Lemon sorbet

Lemon sorbet scoops in two tall glasses

Our refreshing lemon sorbet requires just four ingredients and can be served as a palate-cleanser between courses or a light dessert. If you need a helping hand, watch our handy video guide to making sorbet.

Cool down with more refreshing sorbet recipes.

5. Speedy lemon pudding

Steamed lemon pudding on a plate with ice cream

This tangy microwave sponge pudding is a super-quick dessert you can make in less than 10 minutes. A light sponge with a slathering of lemon curd really hits the spot after a simple midweek meal. Have a spoonful of ice cream at the ready...

Indulge in more of our comforting lemon pudding recipes.

6. Lemon tart

Lemon tart with slice taken out

Gregg Wallace's classic lemon tart is the perfect citrussy dessert to finish off a rich meal. If you're ready to invest some time and technique into making this, you won't regret it.

Serve up more zingy lemon tart recipes.

7. Almond & lemon meringue roulade

Almond and lemon swiss meringue roulade topped with raspberry

Serve this elegant lemon roulade for an impressive summer dinner party dessert. This light pud combines a tangy lemon curd and whipped cream centre within a chewy almond Swiss meringue shell. Complete your showstopper with a topping of strawberries, cream and flaked almonds.

Find more recipes using lemon curd.

8. Lemon drizzle sponge pudding

Lemon drizzle sponge in a serving dish and bowl

We've taken a classic lemon drizzle cake and turned it into a gooey self-saucing pudding. Pouring sweetened lemon juice over the batter before it bakes allows it to puddle at the bottom of the sponge to create a beautifully zingy sauce. Served with a dollop of cream or custard, it's the ultimate comfort pudding.

Try more self-saucing puddings for the ultimate comforting treat.

9. Lemon curd, mascarpone & passion fruit tart

Rectangular tart with passionfruit, lemon and mascarpone topping

Get a taste of the tropics with this summery lemon curd, mascarpone and passion fruit tart. It couldn't be easier to make, using a base of shop-bought puff pastry and just a handful of toppings. Add an extra touch of luxury with a scattering of chopped pistachio nuts.

Whip up more speedy tarts and pies with our puff pastry recipes.

10. Lemon meringue fridge cake

Layered lemon fridge cake topped with meringues and lemons

An impressive meringue cake that requires little effort. Construct this biscuity, creamy dessert and keep chilled until you need to wow your guests. Most of the ingredients are ready-made so you can forget the stress and spend more time out of the kitchen.

Find more fabulous fridge cake recipes.

Get more dessert inspiration...

Top 10 strawberry desserts
Orange cake recipes
Easy no-cook summer desserts
Top 10 ice cream desserts
Banana dessert recipes
The best family barbecue desserts
Best ever summer cheesecake recipes
Top 10 Italian dessert recipes

Advertisement

What's your favourite lemon dessert? Let us know in the comments below...

Comments, questions and tips

Choose the type of message you'd like to post

Choose the type of message you'd like to post
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement