Creamy Lemon Pie

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Indulge in the refreshing and tangy flavors of our Creamy Lemon Pie, a perfect dessert for any occasion. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, zesty lemon filling, this pie strikes the ideal balance between sweet and tart. Easy to make and sure to impress, this lemon pie will brighten up any dessert table with its vibrant citrusy flavor.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (approx. one sleeve of graham crackers)
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the lemon filling:

  • ⅔ cup lemon juice (about 3-5 lemons)
  • 2 (14 oz) cans sweetened condensed milk
  • 3 large egg yolks

For topping:

  • Whipped cream
  • Lemon zest
  • Lemon slices

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the crust and filling.
  2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, forming an even crust along the bottom and sides. Bake the crust for 8 minutes and then set aside.
  3. Mix the Lemon Filling: In another medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the lemon mixture into the warm pie crust. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the center is mostly set, though it may still be slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let the pie sit on the counter for 10 minutes to finish setting as it cools.
  5. Chill the Pie: Transfer the pie to the refrigerator and chill for 2-3 hours or overnight to completely set.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top the pie with whipped cream, lemon zest, and lemon slices for a beautiful and flavorful garnish.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 5 min
  • Cooking Time: 20 min
  • Total Time: 2 hr 25 min
  • Servings: 8

Serving and Storage Tips :

1. Serving Suggestions:

  • Chilled Perfection: For the best flavor and texture, serve the creamy lemon pie well-chilled. Ensure it’s been in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours or overnight before slicing.
  • Whipped Cream Topping: Add a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice. The creaminess of the whipped cream pairs beautifully with the tart lemon filling.
  • Lemon Garnishes: Enhance the presentation and flavor by adding a sprinkle of lemon zest and a thin lemon slice on each piece. This adds a burst of citrusy aroma and a touch of elegance.
  • Berry Bliss: Serve the pie with a side of fresh berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries. The sweetness of the berries complements the tartness of the lemon pie.
  • Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice of lemon pie with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

2. Storage Guidelines:

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator. Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  • Shelf Life: The lemon pie will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, consume within this time frame.
  • Freezing: While the pie can be frozen, note that the texture of the filling might change slightly. If you wish to freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

3. Revitalization Tips:

  • Freshen Up Toppings: If the whipped cream topping loses its texture after refrigeration, add a fresh dollop of whipped cream before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon zest and slices to refresh the look and flavor.
  • Serve Chilled: Always serve the pie chilled for the best experience. If the pie has been out of the refrigerator for a while, let it chill again for a few minutes before serving.

With these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Creamy Lemon Pie remains delicious and fresh, whether you’re serving it immediately or enjoying leftovers. Embrace the refreshing and tangy flavors of this delightful dessert, and make every bite as enjoyable as the first!

Variations :

  1. Lime Twist: Substitute lime juice for lemon juice to create a creamy lime pie with a similar tangy flavor but a different citrus twist. Garnish with lime zest and slices.
  2. Berry Bliss: Fold in a handful of fresh berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, into the lemon filling before baking. The berries add a burst of flavor and color.
  3. Coconut Infusion: Add a half cup of shredded coconut to the crust mixture or sprinkle it on top before baking. The coconut pairs wonderfully with the lemon flavor.
  4. Ginger Snap Crust: Replace the graham cracker crumbs with crushed ginger snaps for a spicy and sweet crust that complements the lemon filling.
  5. Meringue Topping: Top the pie with a layer of meringue instead of whipped cream. Bake the meringue until golden brown for a classic lemon meringue pie variation.
  6. Cream Cheese Addition: Mix in 4 oz of softened cream cheese with the lemon filling for an extra creamy and rich texture.
  7. Herbal Infusion: Infuse the lemon juice with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or mint for a unique and aromatic twist. Strain out the herbs before adding the juice to the filling.
  8. Honey Sweetened: Replace the sugar in the crust with honey for a natural sweetness that adds depth to the pie’s flavor profile.
  9. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top of the pie before chilling. The chocolate adds a luxurious touch and pairs well with the lemon flavor.
  10. Nutty Crust: Mix finely chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts into the crust mixture for added crunch and a nutty flavor.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. The taste may be slightly different.
  2. How do I know when the pie is done baking? The pie is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will continue to set as it cools. A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
  3. Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
  4. What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk? Sweetened condensed milk is crucial for the pie’s texture and sweetness. There isn’t a direct substitute that will provide the same results.
  5. Can I use a different type of crust? Absolutely! Try using a vanilla wafer crust, shortbread crust, or even a pastry crust for different flavor variations.
  6. How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy? Pre-bake the crust as directed, and ensure it is cool before adding the filling. This helps create a barrier that prevents sogginess.
  7. Is it necessary to use egg yolks? Egg yolks help thicken the filling and provide a rich texture. It’s best not to omit them, but you can experiment with egg substitutes if necessary.
  8. Can I freeze the pie for later? Yes, you can freeze the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Note that the texture may change slightly.
  9. How long can I store leftovers? Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
  10. What’s the best way to slice the pie cleanly? For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe the knife clean between each cut for the best results.

With these creative variations and helpful FAQs, you can customize your Creamy Lemon Pie to suit your taste preferences and troubleshoot any questions that may arise during the baking process. Enjoy the zesty, creamy goodness of this delightful dessert with every bite!

Enjoy the delightful and creamy texture of this Creamy Lemon Pie, a dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your table. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, this pie is a refreshing treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether served at a casual family gathering or a festive occasion, this lemon pie is a surefire hit. Dive into the vibrant, zesty goodness and savor each delicious bite!