Lemon Chess Pie(Good!)

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A tangy and sweet lemon chess pie with a rich custard filling and golden top, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for special occasions or afternoon tea.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 tablespoon white cornmeal
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 1 tablespoon finely shredded lemon peel
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar, cornmeal, flour, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl.
  2. Beat eggs well in a separate bowl.
  3. Add the eggs to the sugar mixture and mix well.
  4. Stir in buttermilk, unsalted butter, lemon peel, lemon juice, and vanilla until well blended.
  5. Pour the mixture into an unbaked 9-inch pie shell.
  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
  7. Remove the pie from the oven and cool completely on a rack.
  8. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother filling, make sure to blend the ingredients well, especially the butter. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. To enhance the lemon flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest to the whipped cream when serving. This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Cheese Eyeballs for a delightful dessert spread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lemon Chess Pie chilled or at room temperature, optionally topped with freshly whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar. It pairs nicely with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside American recipes like Double Brownies or a refreshing Sugarless Pineapple Shake for a balanced dessert table.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 days. To enjoy it warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon Chess Pie(Good!) contains roughly 327 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

327 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.9g 16% DV
Total Fat 20.5g 26% DV
Carbs 27.9g 10% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 3.1g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 349.7mg 15% DV
Potassium 228.4mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 56mg 19% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 135mcg 15% DV
Vitamin C 1.7mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.6mcg 3% DV
Calcium 135mg 10% DV
Iron 1.6mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 different type of pie crust?

Yes, you can use a store-bought or homemade graham cracker crust for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure it’s unbaked to properly hold the filling. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pie crusts available in stores.

What if I don't have fresh lemons?

If fresh lemons are unavailable, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute, though the flavor may not be as vibrant. Aim for about 1/3 cup of bottled juice, but try to use fresh lemon peel for the best aroma and taste.

Can I freeze Lemon Chess Pie?

Yes, you can freeze Lemon Chess Pie. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight 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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