Auntie'S Lemon Pie
A tangy and smooth lemon pie with a sweet meringue topping, perfect for citrus lovers and suitable for a refreshing dessert after family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook all ingredients except lemon juice in the top of a double boiler until it begins to thicken.
- Add lemon juice and cook a little longer until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
- Cool the lemon custard before pouring into a baked pie shell.
- Top with stiffly beaten egg whites and brown in a 350°F oven until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're short on time, a pre-made pie shell works perfectly. Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature before beating for optimal volume. Using fresh lemon juice is crucial for the best taste, but bottled lemon juice can be a quick substitute in a pinch. This pie also pairs beautifully with Marvelous Cheese Straws as a savory side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Auntie’s Lemon Pie chilled for a refreshing dessert. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Fresh berries can be a delightful garnish, adding a pop of color and flavor. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or fruit platter for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It's best enjoyed within 3-4 days. If the meringue begins to weep, reheat individual slices in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to refresh the texture before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Auntie'S Lemon Pie contains roughly 368 calories, with 9g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1092mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of citrus juice instead of lemon?
Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the sweetness and acidity levels will vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly to achieve the desired taste.
How do I prevent the meringue from weeping?
To prevent weeping, ensure that you spread the meringue all the way to the edges of the pie crust, sealing it. Bake the pie immediately after spreading the meringue and avoid refrigerating it before serving, as chilling can cause moisture to form.
What can I do if my lemon custard doesn't thicken?
If your lemon custard doesn't thicken, it's likely that it hasn't cooked long enough. Return it to the double boiler and continue to cook while stirring constantly until it reaches a thicker consistency. If it's still too thin, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and add it to the custard while cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).