Hey there my friend 👋. This creamy lemon pie is so smooth and tangy, you’ll want to eat it straight from the pan. And guess what? My trick shaves off extra minutes from prep time, so you get to enjoy it faster.
The secret? Sweetened condensed milk—it makes the pie extra creamy without needing extra sugar. Plus, no fancy steps. Just mix, pour, and bake. Let’s get started!
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and/or equipment you need to make this recipe.
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pie pan (9-inch)
- Spatula
- Zester (for fresh lemon zest)
- Oven
Important Info
- Servings: 8 slices
- Estimated Cost to make this recipe: Around $8-$10
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes + chilling time
- Additional time: 3 hours (for chilling)
- Calories per serving: Around 280
- Cook method: Baking
- Season: All year round
- Courses: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Diets: Vegetarian
How to Make Creamy Lemon Pie
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this delicacy and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Original Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Graham cracker crumbs | Crushed digestive biscuits |
| Melted butter | Coconut oil |
| Fresh lemon juice | Bottled lemon juice (not from concentrate) |
| Sweetened condensed milk | Evaporated milk + ¾ cup sugar |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure to go up the sides. Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool.
- In another bowl, whisk egg yolks, condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the cooled crust and bake for 15 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and let it cool completely before chilling in the fridge for at least 3 hours.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh lemons for the best taste. Bottled juice won’t have the same zing.
- Let the pie chill overnight for a firmer texture.
- If your crust crumbles, press it firmly with the bottom of a glass.
- Don’t overbake. The pie will set as it cools.
What to Serve with Creamy Lemon Pie
This pie pairs well with:
- Whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Fresh berries to balance the tartness.
- Iced tea or coffee to complement the citrusy flavor.
How Do You Serve the Recipe?
Use a sharp knife to slice cleanly. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat slices. A pie server makes lifting slices easy.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
This pie is perfect for summer picnics since it’s refreshing and easy to transport. It’s also great for holiday gatherings, especially Easter and Thanksgiving, when you need a light dessert after a heavy meal.
Storage
Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature)
- Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 4 hours. If it’s warm, store it in the fridge.
Refrigeration
- Store the pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cover it with plastic wrap to keep it from absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing
- Wrap the whole pie or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust to save time. Just skip the crust-making steps and pour the filling directly into the ready crust.
Can I make this pie without eggs?
Yes, you can replace egg yolks with ½ cup Greek yogurt or 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for a similar texture.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The edges should be set, but the center should slightly jiggle when you shake the pan. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I add whipped cream on top?
Yes! Add a layer of whipped cream before serving for a creamy, balanced taste.
Does this pie taste too sour?
Not at all! The sweetened condensed milk balances the tartness, giving it a smooth, sweet-tangy flavor.