Introduction

Lemon pie is a classic dessert that combines a tangy, luscious filling with a buttery crust, making it a favorite for many. This delightful treat brings together the refreshing flavor of lemons with a sweet and creamy texture, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a summer barbecue, or just treating yourself, this lemon pie recipe is sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the crust:
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 2 lemons
– ½ teaspoon salt

For the topping:
– Whipped cream (optional)
– Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Prep Time

The prep time for this lemon pie is approximately 20 minutes. This includes gathering and measuring your ingredients, preparing the crust, and mixing the filling.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the lemon pie is about 30 minutes. When combined with the prep time, the total time comes to around 50 minutes. This recipe yields one 9-inch pie, which can serve 8 generous slices. Perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Make the Lemon Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
2. Add in the lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring until fully combined.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, continuously stirring, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Combine the Filling and Crust

1. Pour the lemon filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until set.

Make the Whipped Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread the whipped topping over the chilled lemon filling before serving.

Serve

1. Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. You can garnish with extra lemon zest or slices if desired.

Notes

Storage

– Store leftover lemon pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.

Variation

– You can use a pre-made pie crust if you’re short on time or prefer an alternative to the graham cracker crust.

Sweetness Adjustment

– If you prefer a less sweet pie, consider reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk or using a combination of lemon juice and zest to balance flavors.

Serving Suggestions

– Consider serving the pie with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for added freshness and color!

Cook techniques

Making the Graham Cracker Crust

The crust is prepared by crushing graham crackers and mixing them with sugar and melted butter to form a crumbly texture that holds together when pressed into a pie dish.

Preparing the Lemon Filling

The lemon filling is made by whisking together fresh lemon juice, zest, sugar, eggs, and cornstarch over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.

Baking the Pie

The pie must be baked in the oven until the filling is set, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a firm texture.

Chilling the Pie

Once baked, the pie should be cooled to room temperature and then refrigerated for several hours to fully set and enhance the flavors.

Making the Whipped Cream Topping

Heavy cream is whipped with sugar until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy topping to complement the tartness of the lemon filling.

Garnishing the Pie

Before serving, the pie can be garnished with additional lemon zest or fresh berries to add a pop of color and enhance presentation.

FAQ

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

While bottled lemon juice can be used, fresh lemon juice will provide a brighter and more flavorful taste.

How long will the lemon pie keep in the refrigerator?

The lemon pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days if kept covered.

Can I freeze the lemon pie?

Yes, lemon pie can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the whipped cream topping. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What can I substitute for graham crackers?

You can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even homemade crusts made from flour and butter as alternatives to graham crackers.

How can I tell when the lemon filling is done?

The lemon filling is done when it thickens noticeably and coats the back of a spoon, and it should not be runny.

Conclusion

The lemon pie is a refreshing and tangy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its balance of sweetness and tartness is sure to please your palate, making it a favorite among lemon lovers. This recipe demonstrates that with a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor in every bite.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Lemon Meringue Pie

A classic twist on the lemon pie, this version features a fluffy meringue topping that adds a light and airy texture, complementing the lemon filling beautifully.

Lemon Cheesecake

Combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the zesty flavor of lemons for a decadent dessert that is sure to impress your guests.

Lemon Tart

Move beyond the pie crust and use a tart shell for a more refined lemon dessert. This option provides a sophisticated presentation while retaining the delightful lemon flavor.

Lemon Bars

For a more portable dessert, try making lemon bars. The buttery shortbread crust paired with a tangy lemon filling is perfect for picnics and gatherings.

Blueberry Lemon Pie

Add blueberries to the mix for a sweet and sour combination that enhances the overall flavor profile of the traditional lemon pie.

Lemon Drizzle Cake

Transform your lemon pie inspiration into a moist and flavorful cake, drizzled with a lemon glaze for an added zesty kick.