Description
Creamy lemon dream no-bake pie delivers tangy sunshine on a plate, promising cool refreshment without heating up kitchens. Rich graham cracker crust cradles silky lemon filling, inviting sweet escape with each perfect slice.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups half and half
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 9-inch graham cracker pie crust (homemade or store-bought; regular or gluten-free)
- 0.75 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 large lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 large lemons)
Sweeteners and Thickeners:
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup cornstarch
Flavor Enhancers and Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Optional garnishes: lemon slices, additional lemon zest, fresh mint
Instructions
- Prepare a medium non-reactive saucepan and combine sugar, cornstarch, half and half, lemon zest, and lemon juice over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until the mixture reaches a bubbling point.
- Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking for one minute, whisking vigorously to prevent scorching, then carefully remove from heat.
- Create a tempering technique for egg yolks by slowly introducing small amounts of hot lemon mixture while continuously whisking to prevent curdling, ensuring a smooth incorporation.
- Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook the combined mixture for approximately 90 seconds, maintaining constant stirring to develop a consistent texture.
- Remove the pan from heat and fold in cold butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the butter completely dissolves and the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
- Transfer the glossy lemon filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, using a spatula to create an even, pristine surface.
- Place the pie in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for a minimum of two hours, enabling the filling to solidify and develop its signature creamy texture.
- Prior to serving, enhance the pie’s presentation by decorating with delicate whipped cream, elegant lemon slice accents, sprinkled zest, and optional fresh mint garnish.
Notes
- Quick and effortless dessert that requires no oven, perfect for hot summer days or when you want a hassle-free treat.
- Tempering eggs is crucial to prevent scrambling and ensure a smooth, silky lemon filling with no lumps.
- Whisking constantly during cooking helps create a creamy texture and prevents the mixture from burning or sticking to the pan.
- Chilling the pie for at least 2 hours allows the filling to set properly, creating a firm and sliceable consistency.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant, authentic citrus flavor that makes this pie truly memorable.
- Optional garnishes like whipped cream, lemon slices, and mint can elevate the presentation and add extra layers of flavor and freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg