Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12-14 whole graham crackers, crushed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 large egg yolks (beaten)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (grated from 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Meringue (Optional):
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Gradually stir in the water, making sure to mix out any lumps.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to thicken and comes to a boil.
- Once boiling, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the beaten egg yolks.
- Gradually whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the egg yolks to temper them (this prevents curdling).
- Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat for another 1-2 minutes until it thickens further.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Prepare the Meringue (Optional):
- In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges to the crust to prevent shrinking.
- Bake the Pie:
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Serve:
- Garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh berries if desired.
- Slice and enjoy your refreshing Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie!
This pie combines a tangy lemon filling with a crisp graham cracker crust and an optional fluffy meringue topping for a truly delightful dessert. Enjoy!
Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE
