Berline'S Lemon Pie
A tangy and sweet lemon pie with a smooth, tart filling that pairs perfectly with a flaky crust, ideal for citrus lovers and summer desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In the top of a double boiler, mix sugar and flour together.
- Add beaten egg yolks to the mixture, stirring often.
- Add boiling hot water and lemon juice or flavoring.
- Continue to stir until the mixture becomes very thick.
- Make sure the bottom of the double boiler has plenty of water, but not enough to cause steam to rise while stirring.
- Pour the mixture into the cooked pie shell.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother filling, consider straining the mixture before pouring it into the pie shell. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh juice offers a superior flavor. You can also substitute the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative for a lower-calorie version. Make sure to monitor the double boiler carefully to prevent scorching, as the mixture thickens quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon pie chilled for the best flavor and texture. A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a delightful creaminess. This pie pairs beautifully with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. For a fun twist, try it alongside Peanut Butter Biscuits for a contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat. If the pie has been stored longer, check for freshness before consuming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Berline'S Lemon Pie contains roughly 373 calories, with 16g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. At about 373 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 egg substitutes in this pie?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes, such as flax eggs or commercial egg replacers, to make this pie vegan-friendly. However, the texture may vary slightly, so ensure the substitute can achieve a thick consistency similar to that of beaten egg yolks.
What can I do if my filling is too runny?
If your filling turns out runny, try returning it to the double boiler and cooking it for a few more minutes while stirring constantly. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the filling to help thicken it up.
How can I enhance the lemon flavor further?
To intensify the lemon flavor, consider adding lemon zest from the two lemons used in the recipe. This will add a fragrant, zesty note that complements the pie beautifully. You can also increase the amount of lemon juice if desired, but balance it with extra sugar to avoid making the filling too tart.
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).