The Best Lemon Pie Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, Refreshing Flavor: This easy Lemon Pie offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a burst of citrus that’s incredibly refreshing. It’s a dessert that’s both light and indulgent, ideal for any time of year.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Lemon pie with condensed milk is a classic that never goes out of style. Its vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation make it a guaranteed hit at gatherings.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: This pie can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to set perfectly. It even improves as it sits in the fridge!

Ingredients

• 1 store-bought graham cracker crust (or homemade, if preferred)

• 2 egg yolks

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk

• Zest of 2 lemons

• ½ cup fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sour cream until smooth.

3. Add the sweetened condensed milk and lemon zest, stirring to combine.

4. Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract, whisking for about 2 minutes.

5. Pour the lemon filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, ensuring not to overfill.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

7. Let the pie cool completely. Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 4 hours or overnight.

8. Decorate as desired (e.g., powdered sugar, berries, or white chocolate drizzle) and serve!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 8 servings.

• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes of active preparation, plus 4 hours of chilling time.

Variations

• Lime Twist: Swap lemon juice and zest for lime for a tangy twist.

• Meyer Lemons: Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter, more fragrant flavor.

• Lavender Infusion: Add a teaspoon of dried lavender to the filling for a unique, floral note.

• Berry Topping: Top with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a burst of fruity tartness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the pie in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or use the original pie crust lid.

• Freezing: Wrap the pie in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before serving.

FAQs

How long should I chill the lemon pie before serving?

You should chill the pie for at least 4 hours, but it can be left overnight for even better flavor and easier cutting.

Can I make the crust from scratch?

Yes, you can make your own graham cracker crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, butter, and salt, then baking it for about 8-10 minutes.

What if I don't have a graham cracker crust?

If you don’t have a graham cracker crust, you can use a regular pie crust or even a shortbread cookie crust as an alternative.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, though the flavor may be slightly different.

Can I make this lemon pie without eggs?

The egg yolks in the recipe help set the filling, so substituting them would require adjusting the recipe. Consider using egg substitutes or exploring an eggless lemon pie recipe.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F. It should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center.

Can I decorate the pie?

Absolutely! A dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit like berries will add a beautiful finishing touch.

Is this pie suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this lemon pie is vegetarian-friendly but contains dairy and eggs, so it is not vegan.

How can I make this pie more tangy?

To increase the tanginess, you can add a little more lemon zest or juice to the filling.

Can I freeze lemon pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pie (without toppings) for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

This Lemon Pie is a simple, delicious dessert that combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, summer gathering, or just because you’re craving something bright and refreshing, this pie is sure to be a hit. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your collection!

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