Lemon Icebox Pie

Zesty Bliss: Lemon Icebox Pie

Dive into a world of tangy sweetness with our delectable Lemon Icebox Pie recipe! This delightful dessert is a celebration of bright citrus flavors, creamy texture, and irresistible charm. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée, planning a family gathering, or simply craving a refreshing treat, this lemon pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s embark on a culinary journey and create a dessert that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more!

Ingredients

Produce

  • 2 tsp Lemon rind

Refrigerated

  • 3 Egg whites
  • 3 Egg yolks

Condiments

  • 1/2 cup Lemon juice

Baking & Spices

  • 3 tbsp Sugar

Bread & Baked Goods

  • 1 Graham cracker piecrust

Dairy

  • 1 can Condensed milk, sweetened

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon rind until smooth and well combined.
  3. Pour the lemon mixture into the graham cracker piecrust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
  4. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks.
  5. Gently spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges of the piecrust to prevent any leakage.
  6. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden brown.
  7. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
  8. Once chilled, slice the lemon icebox pie into servings and garnish with additional lemon zest or whipped cream, if desired.
  9. Serve and enjoy the refreshing burst of lemony goodness!

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Extra Zest: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, you can add more lemon zest to the filling or sprinkle it on top of the meringue before baking.
  • Crust Variation: If you prefer a different crust, you can use a traditional pastry crust or a cookie crust instead of the graham cracker crust.
  • Meringue Tips: To ensure a successful meringue, make sure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of any grease. Room temperature egg whites will also whip up better than cold egg whites.
  • Make-Ahead Option: This lemon icebox pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent any odors from seeping in.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice? A: While fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute if you don’t have fresh lemons on hand. Just make sure it’s 100% pure lemon juice without any added sweeteners or preservatives.

Q: Can I freeze leftover lemon icebox pie? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover pie slices for up to 1 month. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Q: Can I make this pie without the meringue topping? A: Absolutely! If you prefer a simpler version of the pie, you can skip the meringue topping altogether and serve the lemon filling as is or with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Keto Version

To make a keto-friendly version of this Lemon Icebox Pie, you can use a low-carb almond flour crust or a crust made with crushed nuts and coconut oil. Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with a keto-friendly sweetened condensed milk alternative made with erythritol or stevia. You can also use a sugar-free sweetener in place of the sugar for the meringue topping.

Low-Carb Version

For a low-carb version, follow the instructions for the keto version and adjust the sweetness according to your taste preferences. You can also reduce the amount of lemon juice used in the filling to lower the carb content further. Experiment with different low-carb sweeteners and crust options to suit your dietary needs.

In conclusion, our Lemon Icebox Pie is a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors that is sure to brighten up any occasion. With its creamy lemon filling, golden meringue topping, and buttery crust, this pie is a true testament to the joys of homemade desserts. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm summer day or as a comforting treat during the colder months, this lemon pie is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and leave you craving for seconds. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure with this irresistible lemony delight!