Pat'S Quick And Easy Lemon Pie
A tangy and sweet lemon pie with a creamy filling and golden meringue topping, perfect for a quick dessert that impresses with fresh citrus flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the Eagle Brand condensed milk, beaten egg yolks, and lemon juice well.
- Pour the mixture into the graham cracker pie crust.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff and form a meringue.
- Spread the meringue over the pie filling.
- Bake at 400°F until the meringue is golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling. If you prefer a lighter meringue, use cream of tartar while beating the egg whites. If you don’t have Eagle Brand condensed milk, you can substitute with homemade sweetened condensed milk. Ensure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry for the meringue to whip properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture. This lemon pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a slice of Vanilla Pudding Cake or with fresh berries for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap to avoid moisture build-up. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for a few seconds, but avoid heating the meringue to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pat'S Quick And Easy Lemon Pie contains roughly 167 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator covered loosely. The meringue may soften slightly, but it will still taste delicious. If making ahead, consider adding the meringue right before serving to keep it fluffy.
What can I do if my meringue doesn't form stiff peaks?
If your meringue isn't forming stiff peaks, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature and your mixing bowl is completely clean and dry. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can also help stabilize the meringue. Whip until the texture is glossy and firm.
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! While a graham cracker crust is traditional, you can use a shortbread crust or even a regular pie crust for a different texture. Just pre-bake the crust according to package instructions if using a regular pie crust before adding the filling.
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).