Kentucky Lemon Pie

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A tangy and sweet lemon pie with a rich custard filling, perfect for spring gatherings or summer desserts, combining bright lemon flavor with a crisp crust.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pie crust
  • 5 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups white Karo syrup
  • 1 cup sugar
  • juice of 2 lemons
  • rind of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Mix the beaten eggs, white Karo syrup, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon rind together.
  2. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
  3. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, until the filling is set.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the filling. If you need a substitute for white Karo syrup, you can use honey or corn syrup, but be aware that it may alter the sweetness slightly. Make sure to beat the eggs well for a smooth filling. This pie can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pie chilled or at room temperature, topped with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. This pie is a great addition to any gathering, especially when paired with American recipes like Glitter Cookies.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Kentucky Lemon Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or serve chilled for a refreshing treat. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Kentucky Lemon Pie contains roughly 193 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.

193 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.3g 7% DV
Total Fat 3.1g 4% DV
Carbs 40.5g 15% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 95mg 4% DV
Potassium 525.4mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 82.5mg 28% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.7mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 5.8mg 6% DV
Calcium 103.6mg 8% DV
Iron 4.4mg 24% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains 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 use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield a delicious result. Just follow the package instructions for pre-baking if required to ensure a crisp base for your Kentucky Lemon Pie.

What can I do if the filling doesn't set?

If your filling doesn't set, it may need more baking time. Ensure the oven is fully preheated and bake until the filling is firm in the center, about 30 to 40 minutes. You can also let it cool completely in the fridge for a few hours to help it firm up.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Kentucky Lemon Pie gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free pie crust instead of a traditional one. There are many pre-made options available that work well. The filling ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so no adjustments are needed there.

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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