Classic North Carolina Lemon Pie Recipe
There is something refreshing about a homemade lemon pie. Every bite is sweet, creamy and filled with bright citrus flavor. This Classic North Carolina Lemon Pie Recipe is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 prepared 9-inch pie crust
- 1 can 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream for topping
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust into the pie dish. Bake it until lightly golden, then let it cool before adding the filling.
Mix the Filling
- Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract and salt until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy without any lumps.
Fill the Crust
- Pour the lemon filling into the cooled pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly so the top becomes smooth and attractive before baking.
Bake the Pie
- Bake the pie for about 15 to 18 minutes. The filling should look set around the edges while the center remains slightly soft.
Cool Completely
- Remove the pie from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to the refrigerator.
Chill the Pie
- Refrigerate the pie for at least four hours. Chilling helps the filling become firm and makes slicing much easier.
Decorate the Top
- Spread whipped cream over the chilled pie or pipe decorative swirls around the edges. Add fresh lemon slices and extra zest for a beautiful finish.
Slice and Serve
- Cut the pie with a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between slices for clean edges. Serve chilled for the freshest flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Grate only the yellow lemon peel.
- Chill the pie completely.
- Bake the crust before filling.
- Use room-temperature eggs.
- Whisk until completely smooth.
- Decorate just before serving.
- Use heavy whipping cream for topping.
- Add extra zest for stronger flavor.
- Keep refrigerated until serving.