Bessie Eakins Lemon Pie
A tangy and sweet lemon pie with a crisp crust and fluffy meringue topping, perfect for citrus lovers and suitable for gatherings or family dessert tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, sugar, salt, and boiling water in a saucepan.
- Cook the mixture for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and add butter, egg yolks, grated lemon rind, and lemon juice; stir well.
- Pour the filling into a pre-baked pie shell.
- Top with meringue and bake until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fluffier meringue, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of any grease. If you don't have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh juice will yield a brighter flavor. Experiment with adding a touch of vanilla extract to the filling for added depth, or consider a graham cracker crust for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon pie chilled, garnished with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Hot Apple Muffins for a delightful brunch spread. For a more elegant presentation, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the meringue's texture, avoid covering it tightly, as this can lead to weeping. If you want to reheat it, do so gently in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes, just until warmed through without melting the meringue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bessie Eakins Lemon Pie contains roughly 299 calories, with 14g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 950mg per serving (41% 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 make the lemon pie filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to reheat it gently before pouring it into the pie shell. However, it's best to prepare the meringue fresh, as it tends to lose its texture when stored.
What can I use if I don't have a pie shell?
If you don't have a traditional pie shell, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust or even make a simple one with crushed cookies and melted butter. Alternatively, consider using phyllo dough for a lighter, flakier option that adds a lovely crunch to your pie.
How can I prevent my meringue from weeping?
To prevent meringue from weeping, make sure to bake it until it is fully set and golden on top. You can also spread the meringue all the way to the edges of the pie filling to create a seal, preventing moisture from getting in. If you're using a pre-baked crust, let it cool completely before adding the filling.
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).