Easy Lemon Cream Pie Recipe
If sunshine were a dessert, it would be this Easy Lemon Cream Pie. With its silky citrus filling, luscious homemade whipped cream, and classic graham cracker crust, this no-bake treat is as effortless as it is downright irresistible. Bursting with real lemon juice and zest, each bite balances bright, tangy notes with just the right touch of sweetness, making it the perfect dessert for summer gatherings—or any time you want to treat yourself to a slice of pure happiness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, Easy Lemon Cream Pie truly lives up to its name!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
Lemon Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Extra lemon zest or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
How to Make Easy Lemon Cream Pie
Step 1: Mix the Dreamy Lemon Filling
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and simply whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and fragrant lemon zest. In less than a minute, you’ll notice the mixture start to thicken and turn creamy thanks to the magic that happens when citrus meets the milk. Whisk until the filling is velvety-smooth and all the zest is evenly distributed. This citrusy custard is the heart of your Easy Lemon Cream Pie!
Step 2: Fill and Smooth
Pour your lemon filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, using a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the top. Don’t worry if it looks a little runny at first—after chilling, it sets up beautifully and slices like a dream. Take a moment to admire that pale yellow color before you move on!
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Topping
Next, pour heavy whipping cream into a separate bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. The key is patience—watch for soft, cloud-like mounds that hold their shape when you pull out the beaters. This homemade whipped cream is delightfully light and the ultimate finishing touch for your Easy Lemon Cream Pie.
Step 4: Layer It On
Gently mound or spread that lovely whipped cream right over your lemon filling, making sure every inch is covered. You can swirl the top with the back of a spoon or, if you’re feeling fancy, pipe it on for an extra-special look. Either way, you’ll have an inviting, cloud-like topping that pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon below.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Patience is your friend! Place the assembled pie in the fridge, uncovered, and let it chill for at least 4 hours or until it’s fully set and easy to slice. If you have time, refrigerating overnight makes the filling even firmer and flavors more harmonious. Easy Lemon Cream Pie is a breeze, but a little patience takes it over the top!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, add a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or adorn with a few thin lemon slices for bright color and aroma. These simple garnishes let everyone know they’re in for a refreshing treat! Slice, serve, and watch smiles appear at first bite.
How to Serve Easy Lemon Cream Pie
Garnishes
Dressing up your Easy Lemon Cream Pie couldn’t be more fun! A generous shower of fresh lemon zest, a few twists of lemon slices, or even a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers will make your pie look as vibrant as it tastes. If you like texture, toasted coconut flakes make a delightful, unexpected finishing touch that pairs beautifully with the citrusy filling.
Side Dishes
Since this pie is brilliantly tangy and creamy, it pairs well with light, refreshing sides. Consider serving it with a fruit salad bursting with berries, or a crisp iced tea to keep things cool and breezy. For a summer celebration, a scoop of vanilla ice cream next to each slice really ups the indulgence factor!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or picnics, try making individual mini-pies using smaller tart shells, or even layering the components in mason jars for a photo-worthy dessert-to-go. If you’re going formal, pipe or swirl whipped cream in an intricate pattern and sprinkle with edible flowers or colored sugar for a touch of elegance. However you serve it, the star remains the Easy Lemon Cream Pie!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Easy Lemon Cream Pie delicious for days, simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or store individual slices in airtight containers. It will stay fresh and tasty in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped cream topping may deflate slightly over time, but the flavors only get better as they mingle!
Freezing
If you’re looking to make this pie ahead for a special occasion, good news! Easy Lemon Cream Pie freezes beautifully. Wrap the pie tightly—first in plastic wrap, then in foil—and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and consider adding fresh whipped cream and garnishes just before guests arrive for the very best texture.
Reheating
No reheating required! In fact, this pie is at its best cold, straight from the fridge. If you’ve frozen it, let it thaw gradually in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature to preserve its creamy texture. Serve chilled for ultimate refreshment.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice truly makes a difference in this Easy Lemon Cream Pie, delivering bright, vivid flavor and perfect tartness. Bottled juice works in a pinch, but if you can, go the extra mile and squeeze those lemons!
How do I get the filling to set firmer?
The filling naturally thickens as it chills, but for a firmer Easy Lemon Cream Pie, simply let it rest overnight in the fridge. The additional time means cleaner slices and an even silkier mouthfeel.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use a store-bought or homemade gluten-free graham cracker crust, and you’re all set. The creamy filling and whipped topping are naturally gluten-free, making Easy Lemon Cream Pie a great option for everyone.
What’s the best way to zest lemons?
Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the bright yellow part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. Zest your lemons before juicing them for maximum citrus aroma and flavor in every bite.
Can I substitute the whipped cream with store-bought whipped topping?
You can if you’re in a hurry, but freshly whipped cream adds a luxurious, cloud-like texture and rich flavor that makes Easy Lemon Cream Pie truly outstanding. If possible, whip it up yourself—your taste buds will thank you!
Final Thoughts
Easy Lemon Cream Pie is a dessert that truly brings joy to any table—whether you’re sharing it with friends at a picnic or enjoying a quiet slice after dinner. Give it a try and see for yourself how easy, uplifting, and downright delicious homemade citrus pie can be. Here’s to sweet, tangy moments and plenty of seconds!
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Easy Lemon Cream Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing tangy sweetness of this Easy Lemon Cream Pie. A luscious no-bake dessert that combines zesty lemon flavors with a creamy, dreamy filling atop a graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
Lemon Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Extra lemon zest or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Lemon Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until thickened and smooth. Pour the lemon filling into the prepared graham cracker crust and spread evenly.
- Whipped Cream Topping: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the lemon filling.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until fully set. Garnish with extra lemon zest or lemon slices before serving if desired.
Notes
- For a firmer filling, refrigerate overnight.
- You can also top with crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut for added texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
