Lemon Cream Pie
There’s something about a Lemon Cream Pie that brings back sweet memories from my childhood. I remember those warm summer afternoons spent baking with my grandmother in her cozy kitchen, the aroma of fresh lemons filling the air. As we whisked together the creamy filling and prepared the buttery crust, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement. She always said that a good pie is a labor of love, and boy, did we pour our hearts into every bite! The first tangy taste of the creamy lemon filling was always a moment of bliss, and now, as I recreate this recipe, I feel like I’m in that kitchen again, sharing laughter and love over a delicious dessert.
Recipe Snapshot
6 hr 25 mins
360 mins
25 mins
Hard
300 kcal
5 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
17 g
Wooden Spoon, Oven, Baking Sheet
Why This Lemon Cream Pie Stands Out
It’s a Classic Dessert
There’s a reason why Lemon Cream Pie has stood the test of time. This classic dessert combines the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of cream, creating a perfect balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Every slice offers a refreshing burst of citrus, making it an ideal end to any meal.
Perfect for Summer Gatherings
Nothing says summer quite like a chilled slice of Lemon Cream Pie. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a family gathering, this pie adds a touch of brightness to any occasion. Its light and refreshing flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser, and you’ll often find guests coming back for seconds!
Easy to Make
The steps to create this delightful pie are simple and straightforward. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you can whip up a fantastic Lemon Cream Pie in no time. With just a few key ingredients, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen.
Great for Any Occasion
This pie is versatile! Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a holiday feast, or just an ordinary Tuesday, a slice of Lemon Cream Pie can elevate the day. Its cheerful yellow color and creamy texture make it perfect for any festive table.
Customizable
One of the best parts about Lemon Cream Pie is how you can personalize it. Want to add some fresh berries or a hint of mint? Go for it! This recipe offers a wonderful canvas to play with flavors while maintaining its classic essence.
Ingredient List for Lemon Cream Pie

The ingredients for Lemon Cream Pie are simple yet so effective in creating that delightful tangy flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in contributing to the overall taste and texture of the pie. The star players include the bright and zesty lemons, the creamy filling, and the flaky crust that holds it all together.
- 19 inch unbaked pie shell: This forms the base of our pie, providing a crispy texture to complement the creamy filling.
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk: This adds sweetness and richness to the filling, making it delectably creamy.
- 3 egg yolks: These are essential for thickening the filling and providing a rich, velvety texture.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest: The zest infuses the filling with intense lemon flavor, enhancing the overall aroma.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice: This gives the pie its signature tartness, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped into peaks, this cream adds a luscious topping that is indulgent and light.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: A hint of vanilla rounds out the flavors beautifully, adding depth to the filling.
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar: This sweetens the whipped cream, making it a perfect complement to the tart filling.
- 2 cups fresh raspberries: These berries not only add a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
Making Lemon Cream Pie

Creating a Lemon Cream Pie is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful scents. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a slice of this refreshing dessert in no time!
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures a perfect bake for your pie. Using a fork, gently poke holes into the bottom and sides of the unbaked pie shell. This helps prevent the shell from bubbling up during baking.
In a small bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy, with a vibrant yellow color.
Pour this luscious filling into the prepared pie shell, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling has set, puffing slightly. It’s important to keep a close eye on it to ensure you don’t overbake!
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial as it allows the filling to firm up.
Next, cover the pie with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours, or even overnight if you have the time. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes slicing much easier.
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes on medium speed. The cream should be fluffy and hold its shape.
Spread the whipped cream generously over the top of the chilled pie. Be creative with how you decorate it; a nice swirl pattern always looks appealing!
Finally, top your pie with fresh raspberries. Scatter them across the top for a beautiful presentation that adds a burst of color.
Give the pie a final chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This last step ensures everything is perfectly set and refreshing.
What to Serve Alongside Lemon Cream Pie
Pairing a Lemon Cream Pie with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience! Here are some ideas.
- Coffee or Tea: A light cup of coffee or herbal tea can balance the tartness of the pie, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Complement the pie with a refreshing fruit salad, featuring seasonal fruits like strawberries and kiwi, to enhance the summery vibe.
- Whipped Cream: Serve with additional whipped cream drizzled on the plate for those who love extra creaminess with their pie.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet can offer a delicious contrast to the creamy filling, creating a delightful combination.
- Picnics: This pie is a fantastic addition to picnic baskets, pairing well with savory sandwiches and light salads.
- Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer barbecue, this pie is sure to impress guests and bring smiles to faces.
Things Worth Knowing
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a world of difference in flavor compared to bottled options.
- Chill Well: Allowing your pie to chill adequately helps set the filling and enhances the overall taste.
- Whip the Cream Properly: Ensure the cream is whipped to stiff peaks for the right texture. Under or over-whipping can affect the final topping.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to add your favorite berries or even a touch of mint to customize your pie!
Tips and Tricks about Lemon Cream Pie

Here are some tips to ensure your Lemon Cream Pie turns out perfectly every time!
- Storage: Keep leftover pie covered in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Serving Temperature: For the best flavor, serve the pie chilled straight from the fridge.
- Variations: Try adding a layer of meringue on top for a different texture, or use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie shell.
- Presentation: Garnish with additional fresh raspberries or lemon slices for an elegant touch.
What to Serve Alongside Lemon Cream Pie
- Fresh Berries: Adding a side of fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, can enhance the overall flavor experience.
- Cheese Platter: A light cheese platter with mild cheeses can complement the tangy filling beautifully.
- Salads: Pair with a refreshing salad with citrus dressing to continue the zesty theme throughout your meal.
- Light Drinks: Serve with iced tea or lemonade to keep the flavors bright and refreshing.
- Celebrations: Perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lemon Cream Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings joy to any gathering. Its balance of tartness and creaminess makes it irresistible, leaving everyone wanting more. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own sweet memories while enjoying this delightful pie.

Lemon Cream Pie
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 1 pie shell 19 inch unbaked pie shell
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 egg yolks egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures a perfect bake for your pie. Using a fork, gently poke holes into the bottom and sides of the unbaked pie shell. This helps prevent the shell from bubbling up during baking.
- In a small bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy, with a vibrant yellow color.
- Pour this luscious filling into the prepared pie shell, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling has set, puffing slightly. It’s important to keep a close eye on it to ensure you don’t overbake!
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial as it allows the filling to firm up.
- Next, cover the pie with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 3 hours, or even overnight if you have the time. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes slicing much easier.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes on medium speed. The cream should be fluffy and hold its shape.
- Spread the whipped cream generously over the top of the chilled pie. Be creative with how you decorate it; a nice swirl pattern always looks appealing!
- Finally, top your pie with fresh raspberries. Scatter them across the top for a beautiful presentation that adds a burst of color.
- Give the pie a final chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This last step ensures everything is perfectly set and refreshing.


