Name: Lemon Custard Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 pie crust pie crust (unbaked deep dish 9 inch); 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 large eggs; 1 teaspoon lemon zest ((1 to 2 teaspoons)); ¼ teaspoon lemon oil ((or 1 teaspoon lemon extract)); 3 cups whole milk; ½ cup lemon curd; to taste whipped cream ((for topping))

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of Lemon Custard Pie. I remember the first time I baked it; my grandmother’s laughter filled the kitchen as we whisked away, creating a blend of sweet and tangy that instantly transported us to sunny days. This pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of zesty flavors and creamy textures that dance on your palate. Whether it’s a family gathering, a sunny spring picnic, or simply a craving for something bright, this pie has a way of stealing the show. Every bite unveils the lusciousness of fresh lemons, making it the perfect way to wrap up any meal. And let’s not forget the whipped cream on top—it’s like a little cloud of happiness that completes the pie.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

What Sets This Lemon Custard Pie Apart

Bright and Zesty Flavor

The first reason to adore Lemon Custard Pie is undoubtedly its bright and zesty flavor. The freshness of the lemons combined with the richness of the custard creates a taste sensation that’s both uplifting and satisfying. It’s like a burst of sunshine in every slice!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This pie is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a spring picnic, or just indulging on a Tuesday night, Lemon Custard Pie fits the bill. It’s the kind of dessert that brings people together and sparks joy.

Easy to Make

You might think that making a pie from scratch is intimidating, but fear not! This Lemon Custard Pie is surprisingly easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create something that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery.

Textural Contrast

The combination of the creamy custard and a flaky pie crust offers a delightful textural contrast that keeps each bite interesting. The smoothness of the custard beautifully complements the crunch of the crust, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.

Make Ahead Delight

One of my favorite aspects of this pie is that it can be made ahead of time. You can prepare it the day before your event, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just chill it in the fridge, and you’ll have a refreshing dessert ready to serve!

Whipped Cream Delight

Finally, let’s talk about the finishing touch—whipped cream. Adding dollops of fresh whipped cream on top of your Lemon Custard Pie elevates the dessert to another level of indulgence. It adds a lightness that beautifully balances the custard’s richness.

What Goes Into Lemon Custard Pie

The ingredients for Lemon Custard Pie are simple yet effective. The bright, tart flavor of lemons is the star here, complemented by the creaminess of the custard. It’s a beautiful combination that harmonizes perfectly together.

1 pie crust (unbaked deep dish 9 inch): The foundation of your pie, providing a flaky and delicious base.
1 cup granulated sugar: To sweeten the custard and balance the tartness of the lemons.
6 large eggs: These are essential for the custard structure, giving it that luscious, creamy texture.
1 lemon zest (1 to 2 teaspoons): Adds an aromatic lemon essence that enhances the flavor.
¼ teaspoon lemon oil (or 1 teaspoon lemon extract): For an extra boost of lemon flavor in the custard.
3 cups whole milk: The creamy base that makes the custard rich and smooth.
½ cup lemon curd: This serves as a topping that adds a luscious layer of flavor.
Whipped cream (for topping): Light and fluffy, it’s the perfect finishing touch to your pie.

How to Cook Lemon Custard Pie

Baking the perfect Lemon Custard Pie is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a pie that’s both beautiful and delicious!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step to ensure that your pie bakes evenly from the start. A properly preheated oven helps the custard set correctly without overcooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 6 large eggs, 1 lemon zest, and ¼ teaspoon lemon oil. Use a whisk to beat the ingredients together until you get a light and fluffy mixture. It should appear slightly pale in color.
Next, slowly add in 3 cups whole milk while continuing to whisk. This will create a smooth custard mixture. Make sure there are no lumps as you mix; the key is to achieve a silky consistency.
Now, pour the pie filling into your prepared unbaked deep dish pie crust. If you’re using a standard 9-inch pie crust, be mindful not to overfill it. You might have extra filling, which can be baked in a ramekin!
Bake the pie for 65 to 70 minutes. After the first hour, cover the crust edges with aluminum foil to prevent them from becoming too brown. You’ll know it’s done when the outer edges puff slightly, and the center is just a bit jiggly.
Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. This cooling period is essential because it helps the custard set up properly.
After the pie is cool, gently spread ½ cup lemon curd over the top. This adds a beautiful finishing layer and extra zing to the pie.
Chill the pie in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours before serving. This step not only enhances the flavors but also makes it refreshing on the palate.
When ready to serve, slice the pie and top each piece with a dollop of whipped cream. This extra touch transforms your pie into a delightful treat!

Things Worth Knowing

Check the consistency: Before pouring your filling into the crust, ensure it has a smooth, creamy texture. Lumps can ruin the custard.
Foil protection: If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the custard continues to set.
Cooling time matters: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature; this helps with setting the custard.
Room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and milk to room temperature helps to create a more uniform mixture, ensuring a smooth custard.

Recipe Tips about Lemon Custard Pie

When it comes to making a fantastic Lemon Custard Pie, there are tips that can make all the difference. Here are some valuable insights to ensure your pie is a showstopper!

Storage: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing: You can freeze the pie, but it’s recommended to freeze it before adding the whipped cream. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and use within two months.
Pairing: This pie pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or a glass of lemonade for a refreshing treat.
Serving suggestion: Consider garnishing with fresh berries to add a pop of color and extra flavor.
Leftover custard: If you have leftover custard, you can bake it in ramekins for a tasty custard treat.
Experiment with flavors: You can add a twist by incorporating other citrus flavors, like lime or orange, into the custard for a different zing.

Great Combinations for Lemon Custard Pie

Serving your Lemon Custard Pie can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to bring out the best in this bright dessert:

Serve with fresh fruit: Complement the pie with seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a colorful and tasty contrast.
Pair with tea: This pie is perfect for tea time. A light herbal tea or a cold glass of sweet tea makes an excellent pairing.
Perfect for spring gatherings: With its refreshing flavor, Lemon Custard Pie is ideal for spring picnics or outdoor parties.
Great for brunch: Consider serving this pie as a sweet option at brunch alongside savory dishes.
Chilled delight: For hot days, serve the pie chilled with extra whipped cream for a refreshing treat.
Holiday treat: This pie can make a lovely addition to holiday gatherings, bringing a tangy twist to the dessert table.

FAQ

While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh lemons for the best flavor. Fresh lemon juice provides a brightness and complexity that bottled juice just can’t match. The zest from fresh lemons also adds an aromatic quality that enhances the overall taste of your Lemon Custard Pie.

The perfect Lemon Custard Pie is ready when the edges puff slightly and the center has a slight jiggle. It’s essential to avoid overbaking, as this can cause the custard to become rubbery. Trust your instincts and check the pie at the lower end of the baking time; it will continue to set as it cools!

Absolutely! The Lemon Custard Pie is an excellent dessert to make ahead of time. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!

To store leftovers, place the pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3 days. If you find yourself with more pie than you can eat, you can also freeze slices! Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

The Lemon Custard Pie stands out for its delightful blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that will make your taste buds sing. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just about the pie, but the experience of creating something delicious. Your friends and family will rave about it!