Magic Lemon Pie

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Growing up in Georgia, I often indulged in a delightful dessert known as Magic Lemon Pie. Little did I know, the secret recipe was right under my nose—my mother had it all along! While Edward’s Pies, famous for their frozen lemon meringue pie since the 1950s, are a nostalgic favorite, I decided to recreate the magic at home. And, to my surprise, making this pie is as enjoyable as eating it! With its luscious lemon filling and airy meringue topping, this pie is a taste of nostalgia that you can whip up anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Magic Lemon Pie is a testament to simplicity and flavor. The lemon juice blends with sweetened condensed milk to form a creamy filling that requires no baking. It’s the perfect dessert for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs. Plus, it’s versatile—if you’re not a fan of meringue like my friend Garth, simply double the filling and skip the meringue for double the magic!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Medium mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula
  • 9-inch pie pan
  • Oven

Ingredients

  • 1 can (14 ounces) of Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk (NOT evaporated milk)
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest or 1/4 teaspoon lemon extract
  • 2 eggs, separated
  • 1 graham cracker or baked pie crust (8 or 9 inches)
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar
  • 4 tablespoons of sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest or extract, and egg yolks until the mixture thickens.
  3. Pour the mixture into the cooled graham cracker crust or pie crust.
  4. In another medium bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar at high speed until soft peaks form.
  5. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on medium speed until the sugar dissolves, and the meringue forms firm, shiny peaks.
  6. Spread the meringue over the pie, ensuring it seals at the edge of the crust to prevent shrinkage.
  7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the meringue is lightly browned.
  8. Allow the pie to cool. Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Tips for Success

  • Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for the best meringue consistency.
  • Seal the meringue well to prevent it from shrinking away from the edges during baking.

Additional Tips or Variations

If you prefer a more citrusy punch, increase the lemon zest. For a twist, try adding a touch of vanilla extract to the meringue for added flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Protein: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a premade pie crust? Absolutely! A premade graham cracker crust works perfectly.

How long does the pie last in the refrigerator? The pie can be stored for up to 3 days when covered.

Conclusion

This Magic Lemon Pie is a delightful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re a fan of the classic lemon meringue or prefer a meringue-free version, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and I guarantee you’ll be reaching for seconds. Don’t forget to share your pie-making adventures with us in the comments!

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31 Comments

  1. When you double the filling and omit the meringue, do you still just used the egg yolks in the filling, or can you use whole eggs?

  2. I don’t add eggs. I add 1 container of cool whip No baking, that’s it. This is how my grandma made it & it is my favorite pie.

      • The cool whip is mixed up into the lemon, eagle brand mix it is wonderful and you can put Merengue on top if you want. I also make tiramisu with this same recipe in a cake pan. But instead of lemon juice substitute 1&1/2cups of strong coffee for the lemon juice. Layer the coffee mixture with Graham crackers, layer upon layer topping it with the coffee mixture and you can add more Cool whip on top of that. Let it sit in the fridge overnight, at least 24 hours. It’s an excellent and an easy desert to make

    • Sounds like you forgot to add the lemon juice in after you put in the eggs. You don’t need to use a mixer to beat it, but stir all the ingredients in with a spatula or a spoon. The lemon juice thickens the filling by cooking the eggs. No heat necessary. But you must add in the lemon juice if you want your pie to filling to thicken.

  3. Yes cook filling until it thickens. Then pour into pie crust. I also add a half stick of soft real butter to pudding while cooking. Butter makes everything better. Just my little tweaks. Sue

  4. You can cook it in a Microwave and stir every few minutes until it thickens. Thats much better than on the stove. Either way you stir until it starts to thicken.

  5. I have been cooking this for years. You do not have too cook the pudding, when you add the lemon juice to the condensed milk and egg yolks the lemon juice cook the egg . Stir it well and it will thicken. Then pour it into your graham cracker crust and put the meringue on it and bake.

  6. This pie used to be called “Ice Box Lemon Pie” because it doesn’t require cooking on the stove top. It only goes in the oven to cook the meringue. After the meringue is browned put the pie in the “ice box” (refrigerator) and let it set for about an hour before cutting and eating. It’s delicious!

  7. You cook the mixture in pie crust for about 20 min on 350 in oven, then you take out put on meringue and let it brown slightly.. And take out to cool.

  8. I have never heard of the filling being cooked. I use Condense milk, fresh squeezed lemons (depending on desired tartness), I have used eggs but I do not now because they are raw (I know some say the juice cooks the eggs but they are not really needed). The lemon juice is what thicken the milk. I use a graham cracker crust ( I have crushed Vanilla Waffles and added melted butter & pressed/shape to pie pan for a wonder crust). I like Cool Whip for my pie topping.

  9. Been using this recipe for 70 years!! Never failed, never gotten sick from eating it, but I use whole Ritz crackers for crust and we call it Atlantic Beach Pie. You can’t beat it. So easy and ALWAYS a hit. Just follow the directions to the letter.

  10. Geez!!. Just go by the lady’s recipe. When the meringue ( which I love!,,,) is baked, that takes care of the egg whites being ok to eat. I’m baking it for Christmas tomorrow! Thanks for this pie recipe!! Can’t wait to try it!

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