Lemon Butter Pie

Discover the ultimate lemon butter pie recipe that’s perfect for lemon dessert lovers! Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich, creamy lemon filling, this pie is packed with fresh citrus flavor. Ideal for summer gatherings, holidays, or any time you want a refreshing, tangy dessert. This no-fail recipe is simple to make and can be served chilled or frozen for a delightful twist. With easy-to-follow instructions and tips, this is the best lemon pie to satisfy your sweet and tart cravings. Perfect for those searching for a classic yet unique lemon dessert recipe!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 4 tbsp butter, melted

For the Lemon Butter Filling:

• ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 large eggs
• 1 large egg yolk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into 1-tbsp pieces (room temperature but firm)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9-inch shallow pie dish.
2. Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Mix with your fingers until evenly moistened.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the pie dish, ensuring even coverage on the bottom and up the sides. Don’t worry about creating perfectly smooth edges; the rustic look adds charm.
4. Bake the crust for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Filling

5. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, eggs, egg yolk, and sugar until fully combined.
6. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a silicone whisk or spoonula to prevent sticking. Continue until the mixture thickens and reaches 180°F (82°C).
7. Strain the lemon curd through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps. Allow the curd to cool slightly to 140°F (60°C).

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

8. Transfer the lemon curd to a food processor. With the machine running, add the butter one piece at a time, allowing each to fully incorporate before adding the next. This creates a silky, creamy filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

9. Pour the lemon butter filling into the cooled crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
10. Refrigerate the pie for several hours or until set. For a firmer consistency, place the pie in the freezer for about 1 hour before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

11. Serve the pie cold or slightly softened if frozen. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing if serving straight from the freezer.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Tangy Flavor: The lemon butter filling is the perfect balance of tart and sweet.
• Simple Ingredients: You’ll likely have most of these ingredients on hand.
• No-Fuss Crust: The graham cracker crust is easy to make and pairs beautifully with the creamy lemon filling.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it chilled or frozen for a refreshing treat.

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Tips

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice delivers the best flavor. Avoid bottled juice for this recipe.
• Prevent Curdling: Stir continuously over medium heat to ensure a smooth filling.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or freeze for a firmer texture.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Crust Options: Swap graham cracker crumbs for crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies.
• Citrus Swaps: Try lime juice for a zesty lime butter pie.
• Topping Ideas: Garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra-special touch.

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FAQs

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie is perfect for making ahead. Refrigerate or freeze it until ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use salted butter?

Unsalted butter is recommended to control the flavor, but you can use salted butter in a pinch. Reduce added salt in the recipe accordingly.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
• For a special occasion, garnish with candied lemon slices or edible flowers.

This Lemon Butter Pie is a showstopping dessert that’s sure to impress. With its silky filling and buttery crust, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again!