Slice of Lemon Pie: A Timeless Delight π
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Recipe Category: Pie
Description: This delightful lemon pie, a cherished winner from a Pillsbury Bake-off in the 1960s, became a beloved staple in Mama’s dessert repertoire. Perfect for special occasions and Sunday dinners, its zesty citrus flavor and rich, buttery crust make it an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon rind, grated
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 pre-made pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred)
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). This will ensure itβs hot and ready for your pie.
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Prepare the Pie Crust: Take one of the pie crusts and gently press it into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure it fits snugly.
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Make the Sugar Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of sugar, flour, and salt. Stir until well blended.
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Cream the Butter: Gradually cream the butter into the sugar mixture using a mixer or a whisk, ensuring the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
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Prepare the Egg Mixture: Reserve 1 teaspoon of egg white and set it aside. Beat the remaining eggs well, then mix them into the sugar mixture until fully blended and smooth.
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Prepare the Lemon: Grate 1 teaspoon of rind from the lemon. Peel the lemon and slice it into paper-thin slices, carefully removing any seeds.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the grated lemon rind and water to the egg and sugar mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine.
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Add Lemon Slices: Gently fold the lemon slices into the pie filling. Make sure they are evenly distributed.
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Assemble the Pie: Pour the lemon filling into the prepared pie crust.
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Top with Second Crust: Place the second pie crust over the filling. Fold the edges of the top crust under the edge of the lower crust. Crimp the edges to seal them securely and create a decorative edge if desired.
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Cut Steam Vents: With a knife, cut 3 or 4 small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
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Prepare for Baking: Brush the top crust with the reserved egg white, making sure to avoid the slits. Sprinkle the top with 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
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Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top crust is a luscious golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly.
Enjoy your Slice of Lemon Pie, a delightful blend of tangy citrus and sweet, buttery goodness thatβs sure to be a hit at any gathering! ππ₯§