We’ve always been fans of the zesty tang in a Lemon Supreme Pie, a classic American dessert that brings a burst of sunshine to any table. Its layers of creamy lemon filling and flaky crust make it perfect for summer gatherings or a simple weeknight treat.
Originating from traditional Southern baking, this pie combines fresh flavors with easy preparation that even novice bakers can master. We’re excited to share our take on this timeless favorite, packed with tips to ensure your version turns out supreme.
Ingredients
As we dive into preparing our Lemon Supreme Pie, a timeless favorite with its zesty layers and flaky crust, we start by gathering these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them by category for clarity, noting any specific prep details to ensure your baking success.
Crust Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Sifted for even texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Chilled and cubed to achieve a flaky consistency.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: For a subtle sweetness in the base.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: To balance flavors.
- 3–4 tablespoons ice water: Added as needed to bind the dough.
Filling Ingredients
- 4 large lemons: Zested to yield about 2 tablespoons zest and juiced for ½ cup fresh juice, capturing the pie’s signature tang.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: Provides creamy richness.
- 3 large eggs: Separated, with yolks for the filling and whites reserved for potential meringue.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Dissolved into the mixture for balanced sweetness.
Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Chilled for whipping into soft peaks.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: For light sweetness in the whipped topping.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure variety for enhanced flavor depth.
Equipment Needed
After gathering our fresh ingredients for the Lemon Supreme Pie, we turn our attention to the essential tools that make preparation smooth and efficient. As experienced bakers, we rely on these items to ensure precision and achieve that perfect flaky crust and creamy filling.
To organize everything clearly, we’ve compiled a list of the key equipment below. We bold the main items for emphasis and include brief notes on their use to help you prepare effectively.
- Mixing bowls (medium and large sizes): We use these to combine dry ingredients for the crust and whisk the lemon filling, ensuring even mixing without spills.
- Pie dish (9-inch, preferably glass or ceramic): This is crucial for our Lemon Supreme Pie as it allows the crust to bake evenly and the filling to set properly for that signature golden edge.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough to the right thickness, we recommend a non-stick version to prevent sticking and maintain the crust’s flakiness.
- Whisk or electric mixer: We depend on a whisk for blending the lemon mixture smoothly or an electric mixer for whipping the cream topping, creating airy textures that elevate the pie’s appeal.
- Zester or fine grater: For extracting the zest from fresh lemons, we find this tool indispensable to capture the vibrant flavors that define our Lemon Supreme Pie.
- Measuring cups and spoons (set of dry and liquid measures): Accuracy is key in baking, so we always use these to measure ingredients precisely and avoid any imbalances in sweetness or tartness.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee the pie bakes at the correct temperature, we suggest this for monitoring heat and achieving consistent results every time.
- Refrigerator: While not a tool per se, we rely on this to chill the dough and set the filling, ensuring the pie’s layers remain firm and refreshing.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, making our Lemon Supreme Pie a delightful success.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create our irresistible Lemon Supreme Pie, ensuring a flaky crust, zesty filling, and creamy topping that delights every bite.
Prepare the Crust
Follow these steps to craft a buttery, flaky crust that forms the perfect base for our Lemon Supreme Pie:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Cut in 1 cup of chilled unsalted butter (cut into small cubes) until it forms pea-sized pieces, working quickly to keep the butter cold for a tender texture.
- Gradually add 4-6 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix with a fork until the dough just comes together without being sticky.
- Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up, allowing the flavors to meld.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle using a rolling pin, then carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, trimming and fluting the edges for an appealing finish.
- Prick the bottom with a fork and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, filling your kitchen with the inviting aroma of fresh-baked pastry.
Make the Lemon Filling
Whip up this vibrant, tangy filling that captures the essence of fresh lemons, creating a smooth and creamy layer for our pie:
- Zest 2 large lemons using a zester to yield about 1 tablespoon of zest, then juice the lemons to get ½ cup of fresh juice for maximum zesty flavor.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk, 3 large eggs, the lemon zest, and lemon juice until the mixture is silky and well-blended, with a bright citrus scent that promises a refreshing taste.
- Stir in ½ cup of granulated sugar gradually to balance the tartness, ensuring the filling achieves a velvety consistency that will set beautifully.
- Let the filling rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to intensify, resulting in a luscious mixture ready for assembly.
Assemble the Pie
Layer the components seamlessly to build our Lemon Supreme Pie, combining the baked crust with the zesty filling for a harmonious blend of textures:
- Pour the prepared lemon filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create smooth, glossy layers that showcase the pie’s signature appeal.
- For the topping, in a separate bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, ¼ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, yielding a light, fluffy cloud that adds a luxurious finish.
- Gently spread or pipe the whipped cream over the filling, ensuring full coverage for an elegant presentation that enhances the pie’s creamy mouthfeel and visual allure.
Chill or Bake
- If baking, place the assembled pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes until the filling sets with a slight jiggle, then transfer to the refrigerator to cool completely for at least 2 hours for a firm, sliceable texture.
- For a no-bake version, cover the assembled pie and chill in the refrigerator for 4 hours or until fully set, allowing the flavors to deepen and the filling to achieve a creamy, refreshing consistency.
- Once ready, slice and serve chilled for the best experience, noting that chilling times can vary based on your refrigerator’s temperature for optimal results.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we wrap up our step-by-step guide to creating the Lemon Supreme Pie, let’s dive into make-ahead strategies that make this dessert even more convenient for busy schedules. Preparing components in advance ensures the pie’s zesty lemon filling remains creamy and the flaky crust stays crisp, allowing us to focus on enjoying the moment when it’s time to serve.
Preparing the Crust Ahead
We recommend making the crust dough up to 2 days in advance to save time on baking day. Combine the flour, butter, sugar, and salt as outlined in our earlier steps, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This chilling process enhances the texture, resulting in a buttery, golden crust that effortlessly supports the pie’s vibrant layers.
Making the Filling in Advance
The lemon filling can be prepared up to 1 day ahead, giving the flavors time to meld into a tangy, velvety delight. After zesting and juicing the lemons, mix them with sweetened condensed milk and eggs, then cover the mixture in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. In our experience, this step prevents any last-minute rushes while keeping the filling fresh and ready to pour into the baked crust.
Assembling and Storing the Pie
For full assembly, we suggest baking the crust and adding the filling up to 24 hours before serving. Once the pie is assembled, cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate to allow the filling to set properly. This method ensures a smooth, chilled texture that highlights the pie’s refreshing citrus notes without compromising quality.
To help you track make-ahead timelines effectively, here’s a quick reference table for storage details:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crust Dough | Up to 2 days | Refrigerated in plastic wrap | Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling to avoid cracking. |
| Lemon Filling | Up to 1 day | Refrigerated in an airtight container | Stir gently before using to maintain consistency and prevent separation. |
| Assembled Pie | Up to 24 hours | Refrigerated, loosely covered | Avoid freezing, as it can affect the cream topping’s light, airy quality. |
By following these steps, we can guarantee your Lemon Supreme Pie is as effortless as it is irresistible, ready to impress at any gathering.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed guiding you through this Lemon Supreme Pie adventure. It’s a timeless treat that brings vibrant flavors and simple joy to any occasion.
As bakers ourselves, we’re confident you’ll find it rewarding and easy to master.
Try it soon and make it your go-to dessert—we bet it’ll become a favorite in your home too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Supreme Pie?
Lemon Supreme Pie is a classic American dessert featuring a zesty lemon filling, creamy topping, and flaky crust. Originating from Southern baking traditions, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or easy weeknight treats. This recipe is beginner-friendly, with tips to ensure success.
What are the ingredients for Lemon Supreme Pie?
The crust needs all-purpose flour, chilled unsalted butter, sugar, salt, and ice water. The filling includes fresh lemons, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and sugar. Topping requires heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. These simple ingredients create layers of flavor and texture.
What equipment do I need to make Lemon Supreme Pie?
You’ll need mixing bowls, a 9-inch pie dish, a rolling pin, and a whisk or electric mixer. Also essential: a zester for lemons, measuring cups and spoons, an oven thermometer, and a refrigerator for chilling. These tools ensure smooth preparation and even baking.
How do I prepare the crust for Lemon Supreme Pie?
Combine flour, sugar, and salt, then cut in chilled butter until crumbly. Add ice water to form dough, chill for at least 30 minutes, and roll out to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Bake until golden for a flaky base that complements the filling.
How do I make the lemon filling for Lemon Supreme Pie?
Zest and juice fresh lemons, then mix with sweetened condensed milk and eggs until smooth. Let the mixture sit to meld flavors before pouring into the baked crust. This creates a vibrant, creamy filling that’s the pie’s star.
Can I make Lemon Supreme Pie ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the crust dough up to 2 days in advance and the filling up to 1 day ahead; store both in the fridge. Assemble and bake the pie up to 24 hours before serving for a chilled, refreshing texture that’s ideal for busy schedules.
How should I serve Lemon Supreme Pie?
Chill the pie for at least 2 hours after assembly to set the filling, then top with whipped cream. Slice and serve cold for the best flavor and texture. It’s a refreshing dessert that pairs well with coffee or tea at gatherings.