Old Fashioned Lemon Pie
Old Fashioned Lemon Pie offers a tangy and sweet citrus flavor with a creamy filling topped with fluffy meringue. Its bright lemon notes make it a refreshing dessert suitable for family gatherings or special occasions, combining a buttery crust with a citrusy, indulgent topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and cornstarch thoroughly in a heavy boiler.
- Add water, grated lemon rind, and lemon juice to the mixture.
- Cook over low heat until the mixture begins to thicken.
- Beat egg yolks slightly.
- Add hot mixture gradually to the beaten egg yolks, stirring constantly.
- Return the mixture to the boiler and continue to cook over low heat until it thickens to the desired consistency.
- Pour the cooled mixture into a 9-inch pastry shell.
- Top with meringue made from the egg whites.
- Brown the meringue in an oven preheated at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a perfectly smooth lemon filling, ensure you whisk the egg yolks constantly while adding the hot mixture to prevent curdling. If you don't have cornstarch, you can use flour as a substitute, but the texture may be slightly different. For a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of turmeric for color or using lime juice instead of lemon. This pie pairs beautifully with Aunt Rachel'S Custard Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon pie chilled for a refreshing dessert option. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. Consider serving alongside light summer salads or grilled fruit to balance the tartness of the pie. For a full meal, complement it with light dishes like Shortcake or fresh seasonal fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from becoming soggy. It should be consumed within 2-3 days for the best texture and flavor. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes, being careful not to over-brown the meringue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Lemon Pie contains roughly 197 calories, with 8g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein.
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 the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust will add a personal touch and can be tailored to your taste. To make it, combine 1 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 cup cold butter, and a pinch of salt, then add cold water until it forms a dough. Chill before rolling out to fit your pie dish.
How do I know when the filling is thick enough?
The filling should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape when you run your finger through it. It usually takes about 5-10 minutes of cooking over low heat after adding the egg yolks. If it's too thin, continue cooking while stirring frequently until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can I use store-bought meringue?
Yes, you can use store-bought meringue to save time. Just ensure it is spread evenly over the pie filling and baked until golden. However, homemade meringue is often lighter and has a fresher taste, enhancing the overall flavor of your lemon pie.
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).