why make this recipe
Lemon Chess Pie is a classic Southern dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. Its simple ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy filling, all sitting inside a flaky crust. This pie is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday celebration. With its refreshing lemon flavor, it is sure to please everyone at the table.
how to make Lemon Chess Pie
Ingredients :
- 1 9-inch pie crust, (unbaked)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 Tablespoons cornmeal
- 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 large eggs, (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 Tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, (melted)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 Tablespoon powdered sugar, (optional topping)
Directions :
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Using either a homemade or a refrigerated pie crust, press it into a 9-inch pie plate.
- Place a piece of parchment paper over the crust and fill the pie with pie beads or dried beans. Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, whisk together the sugar, cornmeal, flour, salt, eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a large bowl until the eggs are well beaten.
- Pour in the melted butter and milk, stirring until combined. Set aside.
- Remove the pie crust from the oven and take out the pie beads and parchment paper. Pour the pie filling into the warm pie crust.
- Place the pie on the bottom rack of the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the middle is still slightly jiggly.
- Let the pie cool on a cooling rack for one hour. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours or overnight. Dust with powdered sugar when serving.
how to serve Lemon Chess Pie
Lemon Chess Pie can be served chilled or at room temperature. Cut the pie into slices and dust with powdered sugar for a lovely finish. It pairs nicely with whipped cream or fresh fruit on the side for added flavor and presentation.
how to store Lemon Chess Pie
To store Lemon Chess Pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze slices, wrapping each slice individually for convenience.
tips to make Lemon Chess Pie
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest enhance the flavor significantly, so don’t skip this step.
- If you prefer a sweeter pie, consider increasing the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that too much sweetness can overpower the lemon flavor.
variation (if any)
You can add various flavors to the filling, such as coconut or berries, to create your twist on the classic Lemon Chess Pie. Additionally, using a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust can give it a different texture and taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, using store-bought pie crust is perfectly fine. It saves time and still offers a delicious taste.
2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Lemon Chess Pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Just cover and refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
3. Can I substitute other citrus juices?
Yes, you can replace lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different flavor. Keep the zest the same or adjust according to your preference.
