Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A few drops yellow food coloring (optional)
- For the topping:
- 1 1/2 cups whipped cream
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Extra lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
- Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined.
- Stir in the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add yellow food coloring if desired.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
- Allow the pie to cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
- Top with whipped cream, lemon slices, and extra lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- Fresh lemon juice provides the brightest and freshest flavor.
- The pie continues to firm up as it chills in the refrigerator.
- Overbaking may cause cracks in the filling, so remove it when the center still slightly jiggles.
- Store the pie chilled until ready to serve.
- Vanilla wafer or shortbread crusts can be used instead of graham crackers.
- Frozen slices make a refreshing summer dessert.
- Whipped topping can be substituted for homemade whipped cream if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg