Description
Creamy lemon pie without baking brings zesty sunshine to dessert tables. Graham cracker crust and tangy filling create a refreshing treat perfect for summer gatherings and quick preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 6 tbsps (85 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 oz / 396 g) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup (120 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
- whipped cream (optional)
- lemon slices or zest (optional)
Instructions
- Crust Preparation: Pulverize graham crackers with sugar and melted butter, creating a cohesive mixture that resembles moist breadcrumbs.
- Crust Molding: Firmly press the graham cracker mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, completely covering the bottom and sides with an even, compact layer.
- Crust Chilling: Refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes to stabilize its structure and enhance its crisp foundation.
- Filling Creation: Whisk sweetened condensed milk with fresh lemon juice and zest until the mixture develops a smooth, velvety consistency, blending the citrusy essence throughout.
- Cream Integration: Gently fold whipped cream into the lemon base, maintaining its airy texture while creating a luxurious, light filling that captures the pie’s delicate character.
- Assembly and Setting: Pour the lemon cream into the chilled crust, spreading evenly and eliminating any potential air bubbles, then refrigerate for a minimum of four hours until the filling sets completely.
- Garnishing and Serving: Embellish the pie with optional decorative touches like whipped cream rosettes, thin lemon slices, or a sprinkle of zest to elevate the visual appeal and provide a final burst of citrus brightness.
Notes
- Prevent Soggy Crust: Ensure graham cracker mixture is compacted firmly and evenly to create a sturdy barrier that stops liquid from seeping through, maintaining a crisp texture.
- Zest Selection Matters: Use fresh, bright yellow lemons with firm skin for maximum flavor intensity and vibrant citrus notes, avoiding overly soft or discolored fruits.
- Whipping Technique: Fold whipped cream gently using a bottom-up motion to maintain air bubbles, preventing deflation and keeping the filling light and fluffy.
- Chilling is Crucial: Allow pie to set completely in refrigerator for minimum 4 hours (preferably overnight) to develop optimal texture and allow flavors to meld harmoniously.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 384
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg