Easy Lemon Cream Pie Recipe

This Easy Lemon Cream Pie is the kind of dessert that steals the show with unforgettable simplicity and a burst of sunshiney citrus flavor. Creamy, silky, and just the right amount of sweet-tart, it’s a treat you can pull together in no time, yet it looks (and tastes!) like you spent all afternoon fussing in the kitchen. With a luscious filling inside a classic graham cracker crust, finished with a generous cloud of homemade whipped cream, this is the sort of pie you’ll crave after every spring and summer meal—trust me, your friends and family will be lining up for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about making Easy Lemon Cream Pie is how effortlessly everything comes together with just a handful of essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role in creating a dreamy texture and zesty, creamy flavor. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll want to use them):

• Graham cracker crust: The perfect balance of sweet crunch and buttery goodness, this deep-dish prepared crust keeps things easy and offers the ideal base for that tangy filling.
• Sweetened condensed milk: This gives the filling its signature smooth, sweet richness that sets up beautifully in the oven. No need for extra sugar!
• Sour cream: Just the right touch of tang and creaminess to balance out the lemon and make every bite irresistible.
• Fresh lemon juice: For an authentic flavor that shines, squeezing your own lemons is a must here—it makes all the difference in achieving that bright, natural citrus zing.
• Heavy whipping cream: This will be whipped into soft, billowy peaks to top your pie, making every slice feel bakery-worthy.
• Powdered sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the whipped cream and helps it hold its shape for that classic pie finish.

How to Make Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Step 1: Mix the Luscious Filling

You’ll start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. In a big mixing bowl, whisk together both cans of sweetened condensed milk and the sour cream until everything is completely smooth and creamy. The mixture should look glossy and thick—no lumps allowed! This is the magic base for your Easy Lemon Cream Pie.

Step 2: Add the Fresh Lemon Zing

Now it’s time to make that flavor pop! Pour in the fresh lemon juice and whisk again until the filling starts to thicken even more. You’ll immediately notice the aroma of real lemon filling the kitchen. This reaction helps the filling set up perfectly once baked.

Step 3: Pour and Bake

Carefully pour the lemon cream filling into your deep dish graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly to all the edges. Slide the pie onto the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 6 to 8 minutes. Keep a close eye—the goal is for the filling to be just set but not browned.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Once your pie comes out of the oven, set it on a wire rack and let it cool to room temperature. This helps it finish setting without cracking. Then transfer to the refrigerator for at least four hours (overnight is even better!) so the flavors can really meld and the texture becomes sliceably perfect.

Step 5: Whip Up Dreamy Topping

Right before serving, grab a clean bowl and beat together the heavy cream and powdered sugar until you have billowy, stiff peaks. This homemade whipped cream takes your Easy Lemon Cream Pie from “yum” to “spectacular.” Spoon or pipe the whipped cream right on top of the chilled pie.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy!

With everything set and ready, it’s time to cut generous slices and savor every creamy, lemony bite. This is my favorite moment—seeing those gorgeous layers and sneaking a bite before anyone notices.

How to Serve Easy Lemon Cream Pie

Garnishes

Let’s talk finishing touches! Garnish your Easy Lemon Cream Pie with a sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest for that extra burst of citrus aroma. If you’re feeling playful, candied lemon slices or even a few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and pure happiness on top.

Side Dishes

A slice of creamy, chilled pie loves simple pairings. Serve with a handful of fresh berries—raspberries and blueberries are perfect companions—or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra decadent dessert plate. A crisp cup of hot tea or cold lemonade seals the deal for a perfect treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to make your Easy Lemon Cream Pie picnic- or party-ready? Try cutting into mini squares for a dessert platter, or serve in individual mason jars layered with crushed graham crackers and whipped cream for a charming rustic twist. If you have extra filling, it makes a delightful mini trifle with bits of leftover crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover pie (covered with plastic wrap or foil) in the refrigerator. It will stay creamy and delicious for up to 4 days—if it even lasts that long with hungry snackers around!

Freezing

It’s easy to freeze Easy Lemon Cream Pie without the whipped topping. Simply wrap the pie tightly with two layers of plastic wrap and a final layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and whip up fresh cream for the topping.

Reheating

Since this dessert is best enjoyed chilled, you won’t need to reheat it. If your pie has been in the freezer, let it thaw in the refrigerator so the texture stays creamy and just right—no need for extra steps!

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

You can, but I highly recommend fresh lemon juice for the brightest, freshest citrus flavor. Bottled juice tends to be more sour and one-dimensional, so your Easy Lemon Cream Pie just won’t have the same zesty pop.

Can I make the pie a day in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, Easy Lemon Cream Pie is even better when made ahead. An overnight rest in the fridge sets the filling and lets the flavors fully develop.

How do I get clean slices without the filling sticking?

For perfect slices, use a very sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This keeps your slices neat and picture-perfect every time.

Do I have to use a deep dish crust?

The deep dish crust is ideal because it holds all that luscious filling, but in a pinch, you can use a regular 9-inch crust and pour any extra filling into ramekins to bake as mini custards.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap out the regular graham cracker crust for a gluten-free version, which can be found at most grocery stores or made at home with gluten-free graham crackers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a wow-worthy dessert that’s truly as easy to make as it is addictive to eat, Easy Lemon Cream Pie is destined to become your new signature treat. Each slice delivers pure citrus bliss and creamy comfort, perfect for sharing with your favorite people—so why not bake one this week and make your own sunny memories?

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