Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the perfect temperature to get your crust nice and crunchy, which will provide a solid foundation for your pie.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Mix them together thoroughly. You want to ensure that the sugar is evenly distributed throughout the crumbs.
- Add the melted butter to the mixture. Stir until the crumbs appear to be wet and resemble the texture of wet sand. This moisture will help hold the crust together.
- Transfer the crust mixture into a 9-inch pie dish. Using your fingers or a flat-bottomed measuring cup, press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish, creating an even layer.
- Place the pie dish in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. You'll know it's done when it starts to turn a light golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Using a hand mixer, beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Next, pour in the lemonade concentrate. Mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth. The mixture should have a lovely, zesty aroma.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping gently. This will add airiness to the filling, ensuring it’s light and fluffy. Avoid overmixing, as you want to keep the texture intact.
- Carefully pour the filling into the cooled crust. You may have a little extra filling, which can be poured into ramekins for an extra treat. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the pie to set properly and achieve the perfect texture.
- When you’re ready to serve, remove the pie from the freezer. Top with the remaining whipped topping and serve immediately. Enjoy the refreshing tastes of summer!
Notes
Although Lemonade Pie is fantastic as is, here are some tips and substitutions to consider:
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one month. This allows you to enjoy a cool treat any time!
- Freezing: You can freeze the filling in ramekins for individual servings. These make great snacks on hot days.
- Pairing: This pie pairs well with fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, which complement the lemonade flavor.
- Variations: Experiment with different citrus flavors, such as lime or orange, to create a unique twist on this classic dessert.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the crust if you have dietary restrictions.