Chris' And G.T.'S Lemon Pie
A tangy lemon pie with a crisp baked shell, citrus filling, and fluffy meringue topping, perfect for citrus lovers and suitable for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a bowl, beat egg yolks.
- Stir in sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and grated rind.
- Pour the mixture into the baked pastry shell.
- In a small bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy.
- Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the lemon filling.
- Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer lemon flavor, consider using freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled. If you're short on time, a pre-made pastry shell is a great substitute. To ensure your meringue is fluffy, make sure no yolk gets into the egg whites while separating. For an added twist, try incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the meringue.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture. This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or a slice of Picante Cornbread to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from becoming weepy. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal texture. If you need to reheat, avoid the microwave as it can ruin the meringue; instead, place it in a low oven just until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chris' And G.T.'S Lemon Pie contains roughly 162 calories, with 4g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (31% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% 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 this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. However, it's best to add the meringue right before serving to maintain its texture. If stored properly in the fridge, the lemon filling will stay fresh for a couple of days.
What can I use instead of cream of tartar?
If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar. This will help stabilize the egg whites while beating them, ensuring your meringue achieves the desired stiffness.
How can I prevent the meringue from shrinking?
To prevent shrinkage, spread the meringue all the way to the edges of the pastry shell, sealing it to the crust. This will help minimize exposure to air, which can cause the meringue to pull away as it cools.
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).