Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 6–8 lemons)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Step 2: In a large saucepan, whisk together 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in lemon juice until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Gradually whisk about 1 cup of the hot lemon mixture into the eggs to temper them. Then, pour the egg mixture into the saucepan with the remaining lemon mixture and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
- Step 4: Stir in the 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter, cut into pieces, until melted and incorporated. Pour the lemon filling into the cooled graham cracker crust.
- Step 5: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely.
- Step 6: Before serving, top with whipped cream.
Notes
- Store leftover pie airtight in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing it to retain its delightful freshness.
- For a subtly warmer serving experience, briefly microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds; avoid overheating to prevent a runny filling.
- Serve a slice alongside a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a scoop of lemon sorbet for an extra burst of citrusy delight.
- To prevent curdling, temper the eggs by slowly whisking in the hot lemon mixture; this gentle approach ensures a smooth, luxurious filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American