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Imagine a sunny day in Arizona, where the skies are clear and the citrus is plentiful. What better way to capture that sunshine in a dessert than with an Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie? This delightful pie brings the zest and brightness of lemons into a creamy, custard-like filling that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The best part? You don’t need to be a pastry chef to whip this up. Using a blender and a few simple ingredients, you can create a pie that feels like a ray of sunshine on your plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for lemon lovers. You’ll adore it for its simplicity and the fact that it uses the whole lemon, peel and all, which intensifies the flavor and aroma. The pie is a breeze to make, especially if you use a pre-made pie crust. Plus, the clean-up is minimal since everything blends together in one go. It’s a perfect dessert for those who want a little sunshine to brighten their day.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- High-powered blender (such as a Vitamix)
- Pie pan (if not using a pre-made crust)
- Cookie sheet (optional, for stability)
- Mixing bowl and beaters (for the whipped cream)
Ingredients
For the pie:
- 1 large lemon
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1½ cups sugar
- 1 (9 inch) pie crust, unbaked (frozen or homemade)
For the topping (optional):
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Remove your pie crust from the freezer or prepare your own. Place it on a cookie sheet if using a metal pan for added stability.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Wash the lemon thoroughly, cut it into pieces, and remove all the seeds. Do not peel the lemon.
- Place the lemon pieces in a high-powered blender. Add eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and sugar.
- Blend the mixture until smooth, starting at a medium speed and increasing to high.
- Pour the smooth mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the pie is set.
- Allow the pie to cool, then chill in the refrigerator.
- For the topping, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 20 minutes. Add whipping cream and sugar, then whip until peaks form.
- Serve pie slices chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Tips for Success
- Ensure all lemon seeds are removed to avoid a bitter taste.
- Chilling the pie enhances its flavor and texture, so don’t skip this step.
- Adjust the sugar in the whipped cream to your taste for a less sweet topping.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a twist, try adding a hint of ginger or lemon zest to the pie filling for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust adds a delightful crunch.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 20g
- Sugar: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a regular blender? Yes, but ensure it’s powerful enough to blend the whole lemon smoothly.
Can I make this pie dairy-free? You can try substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative, but the flavor may slightly differ.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about creating a delicious dessert with minimal effort, and the Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie is just that. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this pie is sure to bring a smile to your face. Give it a try and let the vibrant lemon flavor brighten your day. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added!
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