Description
Classic lemon meringue pie showcases zesty citrus flavors with a buttery graham cracker crust and silky custard filling. Creamy peaks of toasted meringue crown this beloved dessert, inviting you to savor each tangy, sweet bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package (3 oz/85 g) lemon gelatin
- 8 ounces (227 g) whipped topping
- 3 teaspoons lemon zest
- ⅓ cup (80 mL) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ⅔ cup (160 mL) boiling water
- ½ cup (120 mL) cold water
- ½ cup (120 mL) ice cubes
Instructions
- Crust Preparation: Pulverize graham crackers into fine, uniform crumbs using a food processor, creating a consistent base texture.
- Crust Binding: Merge graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter, mixing until the mixture resembles moist, compactable sand-like consistency.
- Crust Molding: Press the crumb mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even, compact layer covers bottom and sides, then refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to solidify.
- Gelatin Activation: Sprinkle gelatin powder into a heat-resistant bowl, pour boiling water over it, and stir meticulously until completely dissolved.
- Gelatin Conditioning: Introduce cold water and ice cubes to the gelatin mixture, gently stirring to initiate thickening and create a smooth, viscous texture.
- Filling Composition: Fold whipped topping into the gelatin mixture, incorporating lemon juice and zest, whisking thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly and eliminate lumps.
- Pie Assembly: Pour the lemony gelatin mixture over the chilled crust, spreading uniformly with a spatula to prevent air pockets.
- Chilling and Setting: Refrigerate the pie for 6-8 hours or overnight, allowing the filling to set completely and develop a firm, slice-able consistency.
- Presentation: Garnish with delicate lemon slice medallions and a light zest dusting to enhance visual appeal and citrusy aroma before serving.
Notes
- Crumb Consistency Matters: Pulse graham crackers carefully to achieve fine, uniform crumbs for a perfect crust texture that holds together beautifully.
- Butter Binding Technique: Mix melted butter thoroughly with crumbs until the mixture resembles damp sand, ensuring the crust will compact and hold its shape when pressed.
- Gelatin Activation Tip: Dissolve gelatin completely in boiling water, then cool quickly with ice to create a smooth, lump-free filling that sets perfectly.
- Chilling Is Crucial: Allow sufficient refrigeration time (minimum 6 hours) to guarantee a firm, slice-able pie that maintains its elegant structure when served.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg