Chilled Lemon Pie
A refreshing chilled lemon pie with a creamy lemon yogurt filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust, perfect for summer gatherings and lemon lovers seeking a light dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup Parkay soft, diet, reduced calorie margarine, melted ⓘ
- 1/4 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
- 2 containers (8 oz each) low-fat lemon yogurt
- 1/2 cup cold water ⓘ
- 1 cup Miracle Whip Free nonfat dressing
- 1 cup thawed Cool Whip Lite nondairy whipped topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted margarine, and sugar; press onto bottom and up sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake for 8 minutes. Remove from oven and cool.
- In a small saucepan, sprinkle unflavored gelatin over cold water and let stand for a few minutes to soften.
- Heat the gelatin mixture over low heat, stirring until completely dissolved, then let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine lemon yogurt, Miracle Whip Free, and thawed Cool Whip Lite.
- Add the cooled gelatin mixture to the lemon yogurt mixture and stir thoroughly.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer pie, allow it to chill longer than the minimum time suggested. You can substitute the low-fat lemon yogurt with any citrus-flavored yogurt you like, or even Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. If you prefer a gluten-free crust, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. To reduce calories, consider using a lighter version of Miracle Whip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, garnished with fresh lemon slices or a dollop of additional Cool Whip Lite on top for extra flair. This pie pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light herbal tea. For a delightful twist, consider serving alongside slices from recipes like the West Texas Venison Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pie can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge. If you want to serve it later, make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chilled Lemon Pie contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 this pie ahead of time?
Yes, this pie is perfect for making a day in advance. Just ensure it's well covered in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing any odors. Chilling it overnight will enhance the flavors and texture.
Can I use a different type of yogurt?
Absolutely! While lemon yogurt is the star ingredient, you can easily replace it with a different flavor, such as lime or vanilla, for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile of the pie will change accordingly.
Is this pie suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make this pie gluten-free, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free alternative. There are many brands available that mimic the texture and flavor of traditional graham crackers, ensuring everyone can enjoy this refreshing dessert.
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).