Good Lemon Pie

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A tangy and creamy lemon pie with a smooth filling highlighted by fresh lemon flavor, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a refreshingly citrusy treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 stick butter
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon flavoring

Instructions

  1. Mix sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan.
  2. Add milk, butter, grated lemon peel, lemon juice, and unbeaten egg yolks to the saucepan.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
  5. Fold in sour cream and lemon flavoring into the cooled mixture.
  6. Refrigerate until set and chilled before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using fresh lemon juice and zest instead of bottled. You can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the sugar slightly. Be sure to stir constantly while cooking to prevent lumps. This pie can also be topped with whipped cream for added creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled, garnished with fresh lemon slices or whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance. It pairs wonderfully with a refreshing French Salad to balance the sweetness of the pie. Enjoy this delightful dessert alongside coffee or tea for a perfect end to any meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the pie is well covered to prevent it from absorbing odors. If you need to reheat, do so gently in the microwave, ensuring not to overheat as it may affect the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Good Lemon Pie contains roughly 470 calories, with 13g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D.

470 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.3g 27% DV
Total Fat 23.3g 30% DV
Carbs 52g 19% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 15.3g 31% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 190.6mg 8% DV
Potassium 249.8mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 206.5mcg 23% DV
Vitamin C 15.5mg 17% DV
Vitamin D 3.6mcg 18% DV
Calcium 228.4mg 18% DV
Iron 5.1mg 29% DV
Contains Milk Egg

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 lemon pie ahead of time?

Yes, this lemon pie can be made a day in advance. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator overnight to ensure it sets properly. This makes it a great option for entertaining, as you can prepare it ahead of time without compromising flavor or texture.

What can I use if I don't have lemon flavoring?

If you don't have lemon flavoring, you can increase the amount of lemon juice and zest to enhance the flavor. Alternatively, a splash of vanilla extract can add depth, though it will change the intended lemon profile slightly.

How do I prevent my lemon pie from becoming watery?

To prevent a watery pie, ensure you cook the filling long enough for it to thicken properly before cooling. Using fresh ingredients also helps, as they tend to hold their moisture better. Additionally, allow the pie to set in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

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).

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