Lemon Pie

Lemon Pie, with its zesty and tangy filling nestled in a flaky pastry crust, is a timeless dessert that embodies the refreshing essence of citrus. This classic pie combines the vibrant flavors of fresh lemons, sugar, and eggs, resulting in a silky and irresistible filling that tingles the taste buds. Lemon Pie is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a popular choice for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, and as a delightful ending to any meal. In this article, we’ll explore the key ingredients and provide step-by-step instructions for creating a Lemon Pie that will brighten your dessert table and satisfy your cravings for a citrusy treat.

INGREDIENTS

To create a delectable Lemon Pie, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour: Provides the base for the flaky crust.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt: Balances the flavors.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Adds richness and flakiness.
• 3-4 tablespoons of ice water: Binds the dough together.

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 cup of granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling.
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling.
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch: Enhances the filling’s texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt: Enhances the lemon flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups of water: Provides moisture and liquid.
• 4 large egg yolks, beaten: Adds richness and creaminess.
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter: Adds a buttery note.
• 1 tablespoon of lemon zest: Infuses the filling with citrus aroma.
• 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice: Provides the essential tanginess.
• 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract: Adds depth to the filling.

For Topping (optional):

• Whipped cream or meringue: Adds a light and creamy finish.

INSTRUCTIONS

Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare Lemon Pie:

For the Pie Crust:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture.
3. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and gently mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle that’s slightly larger than your pie dish.
8. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges for a decorative finish.

For the Lemon Filling:

9. In a saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt.
10. Gradually stir in water, ensuring there are no lumps.
11. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
12. Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat and simmer for an additional 2 minutes, continuing to stir.
13. In a separate bowl, whisk the beaten egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot sugar mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly. This helps temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
14. Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
15. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and pure vanilla extract until well combined.

Assembling and Baking the Lemon Pie:

16. Pour the lemon filling into the prepared pie crust, smoothing it evenly.
17. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
18. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
19. Once cooled, refrigerate the Lemon Pie for at least 2 hours or until it’s chilled and set.
20. Serve your Lemon Pie slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a billowy meringue topping, if desired, and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors.

Lemon Pie is a classic dessert that captures the bright and zesty essence of fresh lemons. The contrast between the sweet, silky filling and the flaky pastry crust makes it a timeless favorite for dessert enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed on its own or dressed up with whipped cream or meringue, Lemon Pie is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrusy joy to your taste buds. Share this delicious dessert with friends and family and savor the refreshing taste of a well-made Lemon Pie on any occasion.