Zesty Lemon Custard Pie

Zesty Lemon Custard Pie Recipe with Fresh Lemon Peel and Juice

| Servings: 8

Introduction

Zesty Lemon Custard Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of fresh lemon with a creamy custard filling, all nestled in a flaky pastry crust. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special celebration.

History

The origins of lemon custard pie can be traced back to early American colonial times, where lemons were a prized ingredient imported from Europe. Over the years, this classic dessert has evolved and been adapted to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

1 stick of unsalted butter, at room temperature
0.25 cup of granulated sugar
1 egg
1.5 cups of flour
0.5 cup of unsalted butter
4 eggs
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 tbsp of grated lemon peel
0.67 cup of fresh lemon juice
powdered sugar for garnish

How to prepare

Beat the butter and sugar together until they are light and fluffy. Then, add the egg and flour, and mix until a smooth dough is formed.
Using your hands, shape the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disc.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it until it is chilled.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Prepare the pastry and roll or press the dough evenly over the bottom and up the sides of a pie pan.
Melt the butter in the microwave and set it aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until they are blended.
Add the lemon peel and slowly stir in the melted butter and lemon juice until everything is incorporated. Then, pour the mixture into the crust.
Bake for 40 minutes, then allow it to cool completely and refrigerate.
Before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding a splash of limoncello liqueur to the custard mixture.
Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lime or orange, to create unique flavor combinations.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to prevent it from becoming too sticky.

- For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra grated lemon peel to the custard mixture.

- To prevent the custard from curdling, be sure to slowly incorporate the melted butter and lemon juice into the egg and sugar mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Zesty Lemon Custard Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to blind bake the pastry crust before adding the custard filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.

- To check if the custard is set, gently shake the pie pan – the center should jiggle slightly but not be runny.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh lemons on hand, you can use bottled lemon juice instead.

- Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in both the pastry crust and custard filling.

Make Ahead Tips

Zesty Lemon Custard Pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to sprinkle the powdered sugar on top just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Dust the top of the pie with additional grated lemon zest for a pop of color and extra citrus flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Zesty Lemon Custard Pie with a cup of hot tea or a glass of sparkling wine for a refreshing and elegant dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Zesty Lemon Custard Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Zesty Lemon Custard Pie contains approximately 320 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Zesty Lemon Custard Pie contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Zesty Lemon Custard Pie contains approximately 18 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Zesty Lemon Custard Pie contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Zesty Lemon Custard Pie is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the fresh lemon juice and zest used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Zesty Lemon Custard Pie is a delicious dessert that is relatively high in fats and carbohydrates, but also provides essential nutrients like protein and vitamin C.

Summary

Zesty Lemon Custard Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the bright, tangy flavor of fresh lemon with a rich and creamy custard filling. This recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike, whether served at a casual gathering or a special occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Zesty Lemon Custard Pie. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town. My family didn't have much, but we always made the best of what we had. One day, my mother brought home a cookbook from the local library. It was filled with all sorts of delicious recipes, but one in particular caught my eye.

The recipe for Zesty Lemon Custard Pie stood out to me because of its unique combination of sweet and tangy flavors. I had never tasted anything like it before, and I knew I had to try making it myself. My mother, who loved to cook just as much as I did, agreed to help me gather the ingredients and prepare the pie.

We spent the whole afternoon in the kitchen, mixing and measuring, tasting and adjusting. The scent of freshly squeezed lemons filled the air, and I couldn't wait to see how the pie would turn out. As it baked in the oven, the anticipation grew. When it was finally done, we eagerly cut into it and took our first bite.

The flavor was unlike anything I had ever experienced. The smooth, creamy custard paired perfectly with the bright, zesty lemon filling. It was a burst of sunshine in every bite, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in our household.

Over the years, I continued to make the Zesty Lemon Custard Pie for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time, it brought back memories of that first day in the kitchen with my mother, and I cherished the moments we shared over a slice of pie.

As I grew older and ventured out on my own, I took the recipe with me wherever I went. I shared it with friends and neighbors, and it became a sought-after dessert at every potluck and party. People would rave about the unique flavor and creamy texture, and I would smile, knowing that I had discovered a true gem in that old cookbook from the library.

But the story of the Zesty Lemon Custard Pie doesn't end there. As I traveled and met new people, I learned that everyone had their own version of the recipe. Some added a touch of vanilla, while others preferred a hint of cinnamon. Some used a graham cracker crust, while others stuck to the traditional pie crust.

I was fascinated by the variations, and I began to experiment with different ingredients and techniques. I tried using different types of lemons, from Meyer to Eureka, and I even added a splash of limoncello for an extra kick. Each time, I discovered a new layer of flavor and complexity, and the pie evolved into something truly special.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by memories and the aroma of freshly baked pie, I can't help but smile. The Zesty Lemon Custard Pie has become more than just a recipe to me – it's a symbol of my love for cooking, my passion for sharing good food with others, and the joy of creating something delicious from simple ingredients.

So the next time you're in the mood for a sweet and tangy treat, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own personal twist, I'm sure you'll love every bite of this zesty, lemony delight. And who knows – maybe one day, you'll pass the recipe down to your own loved ones, just like I did. Enjoy!