Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Name: Easy Lemon Cream Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (9-inch) deep dish prepared graham cracker crust; 2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup sour cream; 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Published: May 26, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this easy lemon cream pie can be whipped up in no time.
Refreshing Flavor: The tangy lemon juice offers a refreshing taste, making it ideal for warm weather or any festive occasion.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, picnics, or family dinners, this pie can be enjoyed year-round.
No-Bake Option: While it requires a quick bake, it can be served cold from the fridge for an even easier option!
Make Ahead: This dessert can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing you to focus on other meal preparations.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Easy Lemon Cream Pie successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups
9-inch deep dish pie pan
Electric mixer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides ample space for whisking together your ingredients without spills.
Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer makes it easier to achieve stiff peaks quickly when whipping cream.

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling

1 (9-inch) deep dish prepared graham cracker crust
2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup sour cream
3/4 cup fresh lemon juice

For the Topping

1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar

How to Make Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. This initial step ensures that your pie sets correctly during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and sour cream until smooth.
2. Add the fresh lemon juice, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Pour this filling into your prepared graham cracker crust.

Step 3: Bake

Bake for about 6 to 8 minutes until just set. Keep an eye on it; you want it firm but not overcooked.

Step 4: Cool and Refrigerate

Let the pie cool on the counter before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours to ensure it’s fully set.

Step 5: Prepare Whipped Cream

When you’re ready to serve:
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread or pipe this whipped cream over the cooled pie.

Step 6: Serve

Slice your Easy Lemon Cream Pie into wedges and enjoy this refreshing dessert!

How to Serve Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Serving Easy Lemon Cream Pie can enhance its delightful flavor and texture. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your dessert experience even more enjoyable.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries or Blueberries: Serve with a handful of fresh berries on the side for a burst of color and freshness.
Berry Sauce: Drizzle a homemade berry sauce over the pie for added sweetness and tang.

Whipped Cream

Extra Whipped Topping: For those who love cream, add an extra dollop of whipped cream on each slice for richness.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Mix in lemon zest or vanilla extract into your whipped cream for an extra flavor boost.

Mint Garnish

Fresh Mint Leaves: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint on top of the pie or beside it for a refreshing touch that complements the lemon flavor.

Citrus Zest

Lemon Zest Sprinkling: Grate some fresh lemon zest over the whipped cream to enhance the citrus aroma and presentation.

How to Perfect Easy Lemon Cream Pie

To create the best Easy Lemon Cream Pie, follow these helpful tips. Each suggestion will ensure your pie is perfectly creamy and bursting with lemon flavor.

Bold Ingredients Freshness: Use fresh lemons for juice and zest. This will enhance the pie’s flavor compared to bottled varieties.
Bold Proper Cooling: Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating. This helps it set properly, resulting in a firmer texture.
Bold Whipping Technique: When whipping the heavy cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are cold. This will help achieve stiff peaks faster.
Bold Taste Testing: Before pouring into the crust, taste the filling mixture. Adjust sweetness or tartness according to your preference by adding more sugar or lemon juice.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Lemon Cream Pie can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

Crisp Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pie.
Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs pairs well, balancing flavors.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a vibrant touch that enhances the citrus notes of the pie.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, particularly mild ones like brie, creates a lovely balance between sweet and savory.
Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, a small portion of chocolate mousse offers a luxurious contrast without overpowering the lemon flavor.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or coconut ice cream serves as a creamy companion that complements the tart lemon nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Easy Lemon Cream Pie can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Not using fresh lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the pie its vibrant flavor. Bottled lemon juice can lack the same brightness and may result in a less flavorful pie.
Overbaking the filling: The filling only needs a brief bake to set. Overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on it; 6-8 minutes is typically enough.
Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the pie to cool and then refrigerate is essential for the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly. Don’t rush this step; refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Not whipping the cream properly: Achieving stiff peaks in whipped cream is crucial for topping your pie. If you under-whip, your cream won’t hold its shape, leading to a runny mess.
Using a shallow crust: A deep dish graham cracker crust is necessary to hold all of that delicious filling. Using a shallow crust may lead to spillage and uneven servings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Easy Lemon Cream Pie in an airtight container in the fridge.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Cover the top with plastic wrap or foil if you don’t have a container.

Freezing Easy Lemon Cream Pie

You can freeze the pie before adding whipped cream.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
It can last up to 2 months in the freezer; just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and warm it for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Not recommended as it may alter texture, but if needed, use low heat and a covered pan briefly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Easy Lemon Cream Pie:

Can I make Easy Lemon Cream Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this pie a day ahead. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a similar tangy flavor.

How do I know when my Easy Lemon Cream Pie is set?

The filling should feel firm when gently shaken, but it will still have some slight jiggle. Refrigeration will help it firm up further.

Can I add other flavors to my lemon cream pie?

Absolutely! You can mix in fresh berries or even incorporate coconut or ginger for added flavor depth.

What should I serve with my Easy Lemon Cream Pie?

Consider pairing it with fresh fruit or serving alongside vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

The Easy Lemon Cream Pie is not just simple to make; it’s also incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. With its bright flavor and creamy texture, this dessert will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Feel free to customize it by adding fruits or spices to suit your taste!

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