Frosted Lemon Pie Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that’s both tangy and sweet, a frosted lemon pie might just be your perfect match. This classic treat combines a zesty lemon filling with a fluffy meringue topping for a delightful balance of flavors. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create this refreshing pie.
Ingredients You'll Need
1 Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are crucial for the pie’s bright, citrusy flavor. Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing it.
3 Eggs: You’ll need both the yolks and whites. The yolks are used in the filling, while the whites are whipped into a meringue for the topping.
1 Cup of Sugar: This will sweeten the pie filling and meringue. Adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness.
2 Tablespoons of Flour: Helps thicken the lemon filling and give it a nice, creamy texture.
1 1/2 Cups of Milk: Provides the liquid base for the filling. Whole milk works best for a rich and creamy texture.
Pie Crust: You’ll need a pre-baked pie crust. Use a standard pie crust recipe or a store-bought version, whichever you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Filling
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare the lemon filling. Start by beating the yolks of the eggs in a large mixing bowl until they’re smooth and slightly frothy.
Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the egg yolks and mix well. Next, incorporate the juice and zest of the lemon into the mixture, stirring until fully combined. Add a small amount of milk and sugar to the mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually add the remaining milk while continuing to mix, ensuring the filling is smooth and well blended.
Step 2: Bake the Pie Filling
Prepare a pie plate by lining it with your pre-baked pie crust. Pour the lemon mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. Place the pie in the oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t curdle or separate. The filling should be set and slightly golden around the edges.
Step 3: Make the Meringue
While the pie is baking, prepare the meringue topping. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to beat until the meringue is glossy and holds its shape well.
Step 4: Add the Meringue and Finish Baking
Once the pie has finished baking and is set, remove it from the oven. Spread the prepared meringue over the top of the lemon filling, smoothing it out and creating peaks with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
After the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling time allows the lemon filling to fully set and the meringue to firm up. Once cooled, slice and serve. Frosted lemon pie is perfect on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream.
Approximate Calorie Count
A slice of frosted lemon pie contains roughly 350-400 calories. This estimate includes the crust, lemon filling, and meringue topping, with most calories coming from the sugar and the pie crust. For a lighter version, consider reducing the sugar or using a lower-calorie pie crust.