Lemon Chess Pie Recipe: A Zesty Twist on a Classic
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of sunshine? This lemon chess pie recipe is your ticket to a delightful dessert experience, combining the creamy richness of a classic chess pie with the bright, tangy zest of fresh lemons. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, guaranteeing a show-stopping dessert that will leave everyone wanting more. Get ready to impress!
What is Lemon Chess Pie?
Lemon chess pie is a variation of the traditional chess pie, a simple yet elegant dessert known for its creamy, custard-like filling. This version infuses the classic recipe with the vibrant flavor of lemons, creating a refreshing and zesty twist. The tangy lemon perfectly complements the sweet and rich custard, resulting in a flavor profile that's both sophisticated and satisfying. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up even on a busy weeknight. Here's what you'll need:
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For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup ice water
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For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create your perfect lemon chess pie:
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in butter: Add the chilled butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Chill: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Blind bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Making the Lemon Filling:
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Gradually whisk in the milk, lemon juice, eggs, and lemon zest until smooth.
- Pour and bake: Pour the lemon filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden brown. A slight jiggle in the center is okay.
- Cool: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Tips for the Perfect Pie:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry pie. Check for doneness at the 40-minute mark.
- Cool completely: Allowing the pie to cool completely ensures that the filling sets properly and prevents a runny mess.
- Serve chilled: For the best flavor and texture, serve the pie chilled.
Serving Suggestions:
This lemon chess pie is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It's perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make dessert.
This lemon chess pie recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process of making this delightful treat, and savor every delicious bite!
