Buddy'S Lemon Pie
A tangy and creamy lemon pie with a crunchy vanilla wafer crust, perfect for lemon lovers and suitable for casual gatherings or dessert occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make the pie crust by crumbling vanilla wafers and placing them in the bottom of the pie dish.
- Stand whole vanilla wafers around the edge of the crust to form the border.
- Separate the eggs into yolks and whites.
- Put the egg yolks into a large mixing bowl and beat well.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice to the yolks and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the lemon mixture into the prepared pie crust.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling. If you want to make a lighter version, substitute half of the sugar with a sugar alternative. Ensure the egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beating. If you don't have vanilla wafers, graham cracker crumbs can be used for the crust instead.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon pie pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, can also add a delightful contrast and color. Serving alongside a light salad, like Autumn Gold Salad, can balance the sweetness of the pie, making for a refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three days. To enjoy the pie again, serve it chilled directly from the fridge, as reheating is not recommended for this dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buddy'S Lemon Pie contains roughly 397 calories, with 18g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value) and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. At about 397 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 fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?
Yes, fresh lemon juice is recommended for a more vibrant flavor. Just be sure to strain it to remove any seeds or pulp. Generally, the juice from two medium lemons will yield about 1/4 cup, which is perfect for this recipe.
What can I do if I don't have sweetened condensed milk?
You can make a substitute by combining 1 cup of whole milk with 1/3 cup of sugar and simmering it until it thickens slightly. Alternatively, use a combination of cream and sugar for a similar effect, although the flavor may vary slightly from traditional sweetened condensed milk.
How do I know when the pie is set?
The pie will be set when the filling has thickened and doesn't jiggle in the center. It should feel firm to the touch and slightly spring back when pressed. For best results, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least a few hours before serving to fully set.
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).