"Mamma'S" Lemon Cream Pie
A tangy and creamy lemon cream pie with a crisp baked shell, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sifted flour and 1 1/4 cups of sugar in the top of a double boiler; add boiling water, stirring constantly, then add milk.
- Cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Pour a small amount of the mixture over beaten egg yolks and egg white, stirring vigorously.
- Return the mixture to the double boiler and continue cooking until it drops in thick sheets from the spoon.
- Add butter, lemon juice, and grated lemon rind; mix well and cool.
- Pour the lemon filling into the baked pie shell and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure you sift the flour well and stir constantly while cooking the mixture. If you're out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can substitute, but fresh is best for flavor. Consider adding a pinch of turmeric for a natural yellow color, or use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. This lemon filling can also be used in other desserts, like in a tart or as a topping for 'Aunt Maggie'S' Muffins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon cream pie chilled, topped with freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of lemon zest for added brightness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee and makes a refreshing dessert after a rich meal. For a delightful twist, serve alongside a slice of 'Company'S Coming Cashew Pie' for an interesting dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon cream pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To maintain the crust's texture, avoid freezing as it can become soggy. If you need to reheat, allow it to come to room temperature before serving or briefly warm in the oven at a low temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Mamma'S" Lemon Cream Pie contains roughly 334 calories, with 14g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 674mg per serving (29% 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 use a store-bought pie shell instead of making my own?
Yes, using a store-bought pie shell is a convenient option and can save time. Make sure to choose a high-quality shell for the best flavor. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can also make a graham cracker crust for a different flavor profile.
What can I do if my filling doesn’t thicken?
If your filling isn’t thickening, it may be due to not cooking it long enough or not stirring constantly. Ensure you keep the mixture over heat until it coats the back of a spoon. If it remains runny, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken it up.
How can I enhance the lemon flavor?
To intensify the lemon flavor, you can add more grated lemon rind or a bit more lemon juice to the filling before cooling. Additionally, consider serving the pie with a lemon-infused whipped cream for a delightful burst of citrus that complements the pie perfectly.
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).