Magic Lemon Pie Recipe

Sweetened condensed milk: This thick, sweet milk is a key ingredient that adds richness and sweetness to the pie filling.

Egg yolks: These provide structure and a creamy texture to the filling.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the pie its signature tangy flavor.

Pre-made graham cracker crust: This ready-to-use crust offers a crunchy contrast to the smooth filling and saves time in preparation.

When whisking the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks, ensure they are fully incorporated to achieve a smooth, creamy texture. This will help the lemon juice blend more evenly, resulting in a consistent filling. Additionally, when adding the lemon juice, do so gradually while continuously whisking to prevent curdling.

• sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with evaporated milk and sugar: Mix evaporated milk with sugar to achieve a similar sweetness and consistency.

• sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut milk and sugar: Use coconut milk and sugar for a dairy-free alternative that maintains the sweetness and thickness.

• egg yolks - Substitute with silken tofu: Blend silken tofu to create a smooth texture that mimics the binding properties of egg yolks.

• egg yolks - Substitute with cornstarch and water: Mix cornstarch with water to thicken the mixture, providing a similar consistency to egg yolks.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with bottled lemon juice: Use bottled lemon juice for convenience, though it may lack the fresh flavor of freshly squeezed lemon juice.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good alternative to freshly squeezed lemon juice.

• pre-made graham cracker crust - Substitute with crushed digestive biscuits and butter: Mix crushed digestive biscuits with melted butter to form a crust that resembles a graham cracker crust.

• pre-made graham cracker crust - Substitute with crushed vanilla wafers and butter: Combine crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter for a sweet and crunchy alternative to a graham cracker crust.

• To keep your Magic Lemon Pie fresh and delightful, store it in the refrigerator. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors or flavors from other foods.
• If you plan to enjoy the pie over several days, consider placing it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its creamy texture and zesty flavor.
• For those who love to plan ahead, you can freeze your Magic Lemon Pie. First, let the pie cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn.
• When you're ready to indulge in your frozen treat, transfer the pie from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow it to thaw slowly overnight. This gradual thawing process helps preserve the pie's delightful consistency.
• If you find yourself in a hurry, you can also thaw individual slices. Simply cut the desired portion and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This way, you can enjoy a quick and refreshing slice of Magic Lemon Pie without waiting too long.
• Remember, once thawed, the pie should not be refrozen. Enjoy it within a few days for the best taste and texture.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the Magic Lemon Pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the crust from over-browning. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is warmed through. This method helps maintain the pie's texture and flavor.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place a slice of Magic Lemon Pie on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as the sweetened condensed milk filling can become too soft.

• If you prefer a more even reheating, use a double boiler. Place the Magic Lemon Pie (or slices) in a heatproof dish and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover the dish and heat for about 10 minutes, checking occasionally. This gentle method ensures the lemon juice filling warms without altering its consistency.

• For a unique twist, try reheating individual slices using a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 300°F (150°C) and place a slice of Magic Lemon Pie on a piece of parchment paper. Heat for 5-7 minutes, keeping an eye on the crust to ensure it doesn't burn. This method gives a slightly crisp edge to the graham cracker crust while warming the filling.

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) to bake the pie and set the filling.

• Mixing bowl: Use to whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and lemon juice.

• Whisk: Essential for combining the ingredients smoothly and ensuring a well-mixed filling.

• Measuring cup: Measure out ½ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice accurately.

• Pie dish: Holds the pre-made graham cracker crust and the filling during baking.

• Cooling rack: Place the pie on this to cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

• Refrigerator: Chill the pie for at least 2 hours to set the filling properly before serving.

Use pre-made crust: Save time by using a pre-made graham cracker crust instead of making one from scratch.

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the sweetened condensed milk and egg yolks are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Efficient juicing: Use a citrus juicer to quickly extract lemon juice.

Quick cooling: Place the pie in the freezer for 30 minutes before transferring it to the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the filling to save time.