Condensed Milk Lemon Pie

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Introduction

When it comes to easy, yet irresistible desserts, few can match the refreshing tartness and creaminess of a Condensed Milk Lemon Pie. This delightful treat combines the tangy zest of fresh lemon with the rich sweetness of condensed milk, all set in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet, offering a luscious, velvety filling with a citrusy punch. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer gathering, a holiday feast, or a casual family dinner, this pie is sure to become a favorite.

The beauty of Condensed Milk Lemon Pie lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are pantry staples, and the preparation is quick and easy. With no need for baking the filling, this recipe is ideal for busy home bakers or anyone looking for a no-fuss, delicious dessert that packs in flavor. In this article, we will delve into why this dessert is such a crowd-pleaser, give you a step-by-step guide on how to make it, offer tips for making it your own, and even share some helpful variations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simplicity at Its Best: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s both delicious and visually impressive. The no-bake filling makes preparation a breeze.
  • Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart: The combination of tangy lemon and creamy condensed milk creates a smooth, luscious filling with just the right amount of tartness.
  • Light and Refreshing: This pie is light yet rich, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings or any occasion where you want something refreshing but indulgent.
  • Versatile and Customizable: While the recipe is simple, there are many ways to personalize it. You can try different crusts, add toppings, or adjust the level of sweetness and tartness to suit your taste.
  • Halal-Friendly: This recipe is entirely halal, with no pork, bacon, or wine, making it suitable for everyone.

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Total Time: 4 hours (20 minutes for prep, 3 hours for chilling)
  • Servings: This recipe makes about 8 servings, depending on the size of the slices.
  • Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 300, Protein: 3g, Carbs: 38g, Fat: 15g.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: These will form the base of the pie and provide a sweet, crunchy texture.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter: Melted butter will help bind the crumbs together to form a firm crust.
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavor of the graham crackers.

For the Filling:

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: The star ingredient of the filling, giving it a rich, creamy texture and sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides the tartness and zesty flavor that makes this pie stand out.
  • Zest of 2 lemons: Lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor and adds a fragrant note to the filling.
  • 3 large egg yolks: These help thicken the filling and create a smooth, custard-like texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla to complement the lemon’s brightness.

Optional Toppings:

  • Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream is a perfect complement to the pie, adding a creamy contrast to the tart lemon filling.
  • Lemon slices or zest: For a decorative touch, add lemon slices or a sprinkle of zest on top of the pie before serving.
  • Fresh mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness to the dessert.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE CRUST

  1. Make the Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir the mixture until everything is evenly combined. The butter should coat the crumbs, helping them stick together.
  2. Press the Crust Into the Pan: Transfer the graham cracker mixture into a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or a measuring cup to press the crumbs down firmly and evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the dish. The goal is to form a compact crust that will hold together when sliced.
  3. Chill the Crust: Place the pie crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling. Chilling it will help the crust set and firm up, ensuring it holds its shape when you add the filling.

SECOND STEP: PREPARE THE FILLING

  1. Mix the Condensed Milk and Egg Yolks: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks until smooth and well combined. The egg yolks provide richness and help thicken the filling.
  2. Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest to the mixture. Stir to incorporate the lemony flavors. The combination of lemon juice and zest will provide a refreshing tartness that balances out the sweetness of the condensed milk.
  3. Stir in the Vanilla: Add the vanilla extract and mix again until everything is well combined. The vanilla adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the pie.

THIRD STEP: ASSEMBLE THE PIE

  1. Fill the Crust: Pour the lemon filling into the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure it is evenly spread across the crust.
  2. Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the filling to firm up and set, ensuring the pie holds its shape when sliced.

FINAL STEP: GARNISH AND SERVE

  1. Add Whipped Cream: Once the pie has chilled and is ready to serve, top it with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for added richness and texture.
  2. Garnish with Lemon Slices and Mint: Decorate the top of the pie with thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of lemon zest. For an extra pop of color, add a few fresh mint leaves.
  3. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the pie into even wedges. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing, sweet-tart flavor of this irresistible dessert.

How to Serve Condensed Milk Lemon Pie

Condensed Milk Lemon Pie is a versatile dessert that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to make your presentation and experience even more enjoyable:

1. As a Refreshing Summer Treat

This pie is perfect for hot summer days when you’re craving something cool and citrusy. Serve it after a barbecue or picnic for a light, refreshing finish to the meal.

2. With a Cup of Tea or Coffee

Pairing this dessert with a cup of tea or coffee can elevate the experience. The refreshing lemon flavor contrasts beautifully with a warm beverage like Earl Grey, chamomile, or a smooth coffee.

3. As Part of a Holiday Spread

Whether it’s a festive gathering or a family celebration, Condensed Milk Lemon Pie makes an excellent addition to your holiday dessert table. Its tangy flavor and creamy texture are sure to complement other holiday treats.

4. As a Make-Ahead Dessert

Because this pie requires no baking, it’s an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the night before your event, and you’ll have a delicious, chilled pie ready to serve when the time comes.

Additional Tips

  1. Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, always use fresh lemons for both the juice and zest. Bottled lemon juice may have a slightly bitter taste that can affect the final result.
  2. Make It a Little Sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter pie, you can add more sugar to the filling. Start by adding an extra tablespoon and taste the filling to see if it meets your preference.
  3. Texture Adjustment: If you want an even firmer filling, you can add a teaspoon of unflavored gelatin to the filling. Dissolve the gelatin in a bit of warm water and whisk it into the filling before pouring it into the crust.
  4. Different Crust Options: While a graham cracker crust is traditional, you can experiment with other crusts such as digestive biscuit crust, coconut macadamia crust, or even an almond flour crust for a gluten-free version.

Recipe Variations

While Condensed Milk Lemon Pie is amazing on its own, there are plenty of ways to put your own twist on the recipe:

1. Add Fruit Layers

For a more colorful dessert, consider adding layers of fresh fruit. A layer of fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries would pair beautifully with the lemon filling and enhance the overall flavor.

2. Experiment with Different Citrus Fruits

While lemon is the classic choice, you can experiment with other citrus fruits such as lime or orange. A key lime version of this pie would be just as delicious and refreshing.

3. Vegan Version

For a vegan version of the Condensed Milk Lemon Pie, swap the sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk and use a plant-based butter for the crust. Be sure to replace the egg yolks with a suitable egg replacer, like flaxseed meal or cornstarch.

Freezing and Storage

Condensed Milk Lemon Pie stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge for several hours before garnishing and slicing.

Special Equipment

To make this pie, you won’t need any special tools beyond the basics:

  • 9-inch pie dish: This is the perfect size for the recipe and ensures an even slice.
  • Whisk: A good whisk is essential for mixing the filling and achieving a smooth texture.
  • Spatula: A rubber spatula will help you scrape the filling into the crust and smooth it out.

Conclusion

Condensed Milk Lemon Pie is a delightful, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tangy lemon flavor, creamy filling, and buttery crust, it’s sure to become a go-to treat for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet afternoon, or looking for a special dessert for a holiday meal, this pie is guaranteed to impress.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your variations, toppings, or serving methods. This pie’s simplicity is what makes it so wonderful, and it’s easy to customize to suit your tastes and preferences.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dessert! And as always, feel free to share your creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how you make it your own!

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