Description
This Lemon Cream Pie is a lemon lover’s dream, featuring a buttery homemade graham cracker crust filled with a silky lemon custard made from fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and sour cream. Finished with fluffy whipped cream and fresh citrus, it’s the perfect refreshing dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Graham Cracker Crust
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Lemon Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- Garnish
- 1 1/4 cups whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lemon slices (optional)
- Lime slices (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then let it cool completely.
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Whisk in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and milk. Cook over medium-low heat until slightly thickened.
- Beat the egg yolks in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in a few tablespoons of the hot mixture to temper the eggs.
- Slowly whisk the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from the heat and cool for 10-15 minutes, whisking occasionally. Stir in the butter and fold in the sour cream.
- Pour the filling into the cooled crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Beat the whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Decorate the chilled pie with whipped cream, lemon slices, lime slices, and fresh mint before serving.
Notes
- Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor.
- Temper the egg yolks slowly to prevent curdling.
- Chill overnight for the cleanest slices and best texture.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Dessert Pie
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American, Southern American