Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie Recipe
Introduction
Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of sunny Arizona with its bright, citrusy flavor. This pie, known for its creamy texture and zesty lemon taste, is surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients. Perfect for any season, it’s especially refreshing during the warmer months.
Ingredients
For the Pie:
- Whole Lemons: 2 medium-sized – washed and cut into small pieces.
- Eggs: 4 large – for structure and richness.
- Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted – adds creaminess.
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup – for sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – enhances flavor.
- Pie Crust: 1 (9-inch) – you can use a store-bought crust or make your own.
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped Cream: for serving.
- Lemon Zest: for garnish.
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Mixing bowl
- 9-inch pie dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil or pie crust shield
Preparation
Preparing the Lemon Filling:
- Lemon Preparation: Remove any seeds from the lemon pieces. It’s not necessary to peel the lemons, as the whole lemon is used in this recipe.
- Blending the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the whole lemon pieces, melted butter, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Assembling and Baking the Pie:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Pie Crust: Pour the lemon filling into the pie crust. If using a store-bought crust, you may want to pre-bake it according to package instructions for a crispier bottom.
- Baking the Pie: Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly wobbly. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield.
- Cooling: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips for Success
- Whole Lemons: Ensure the lemons are thoroughly washed as the entire lemon is used.
- Consistency: The filling should be smooth; blending well is key.
- Pie Crust: Prevent the crust from becoming too brown by covering the edges during baking.
- Chill Time: Chilling the pie helps set the filling and enhances the flavors.
Serving and Storage
- Serving: Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie is a unique and delightful dessert that’s sure to brighten any meal. Its simplicity, combined with the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons, makes it a favorite for all occasions. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at pie-making for the first time, this recipe is sure to yield delicious results.
This comprehensive recipe provides a step-by-step guide to making Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie, perfect for anyone looking to create a refreshing, lemony dessert that captures the essence of sunny Arizona.
