Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tanginess of lemon with the creaminess of cream cheese, all nestled in a graham cracker crust. This pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to summer picnics. With its refreshing flavor and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite among your friends and family.
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Pie:
- 1 5 oz can Evaporated milk
- 1 3.4oz box of instant lemon pudding mix (one small box)
- 2 8oz packages of cream cheese
- ¾ cup frozen lemonade concentrate
For the Pie Crust:
- 2½ cup graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ⅔ cup butter, melted
- Or you can use 1 graham cracker crust, 9 inch
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- For the Pie Crust:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the crust and whisk together until well combined.
- Press the graham cracker crumbs into a deep dish pie dish, making sure to go up the sides.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- For the Creamy Pie:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the evaporated milk and pudding mix. Beat on low speed for 2 minutes until the mixture is thick.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Gradually beat in the lemonade concentrate.
- Gradually beat in the pudding mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the cooled graham cracker crust or into a pre-made graham cracker pie crust.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the pie to set.
Tips:
- Make sure to use softened cream cheese for easier blending and a smoother texture.
- You can adjust the amount of lemonade concentrate according to your taste preferences for a more or less tangy flavor.
- For a decorative touch, garnish the pie with lemon slices or whipped cream before serving.
Conclusion:
Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a simple yet sensational dessert that is sure to impress. With its creamy texture, refreshing lemon flavor, and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, this pie is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. Enjoy!
- Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of frozen lemonade concentrate? Yes, you can substitute fresh lemon juice for the frozen lemonade concentrate if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the frozen concentrate provides a more concentrated lemon flavor, so you may need to adjust the amount of lemon juice accordingly. Start by adding the juice of one or two lemons and taste the mixture to determine if you need to add more to achieve the desired level of tartness.
- Can I make this pie in advance? How long does it last in the refrigerator? Absolutely! Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a great make-ahead dessert. Once prepared, you can store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, it’s best to add any garnishes, such as whipped cream or fruit, just before serving to maintain freshness and presentation. The pie actually benefits from chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours as it allows the flavors to meld together and the pie to set properly.
- Can I freeze Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie for later? While it’s possible to freeze Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie, it’s not recommended due to the texture of the cream cheese filling. Freezing may alter the consistency and cause the pie to become watery or grainy upon thawing. If you must freeze it, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving, but be aware that the texture may not be as smooth as when it’s freshly made.
- What can I use if I don’t have a deep dish pie dish? If you don’t have a deep dish pie dish, you can use a regular pie dish or even a springform pan. Simply adjust the amount of filling accordingly to ensure that it fits within the dimensions of the pan without overflowing. Alternatively, you can also use individual tartlet pans or small ramekins to create mini lemonade pies, which can be a charming option for serving individual portions at parties or gatherings.
- Can I make this pie gluten-free? Yes, you can easily make this pie gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust or by using a pre-made gluten-free graham cracker crust. Additionally, ensure that the instant lemon pudding mix you use is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten-based ingredients. By making these simple substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie without compromising on taste or texture.
- Can I add toppings or garnishes to this pie? Absolutely! Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie pairs well with a variety of toppings and garnishes. You can add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and creaminess. Fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries also make lovely garnishes and add a pop of color to the pie. For a more citrusy flair, you can garnish with lemon zest or thin slices of lemon. Feel free to get creative and tailor the toppings to your personal preferences and the occasion you’re serving the pie for.
- Can I use a different type of crust for this pie? Yes, you can customize the crust according to your preferences or dietary restrictions. Instead of graham cracker crumbs, you can use crushed vanilla wafers, chocolate cookies, or even a traditional pastry crust for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter option, you can also use a nut-based crust made from ground almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Just be sure to adjust the measurements and baking times accordingly based on the type of crust you choose.
- Is there a low-fat or lighter version of this pie? While Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is inherently rich and creamy due to the cream cheese and evaporated milk, you can make some adjustments to reduce the fat content if desired. Consider using reduced-fat or light cream cheese instead of the regular version, and opt for low-fat or fat-free evaporated milk to lighten the filling. You can also experiment with alternative sweeteners such as stevia or erythritol to reduce the sugar content. Keep in mind that these substitutions may affect the texture and flavor slightly, so it’s best to adjust them according to your personal taste preferences.
- Can I add other flavors to the filling? Yes, you can customize the flavor of the filling by incorporating other extracts or flavorings in addition to the lemonade concentrate. For example, you can add a splash of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness and warmth, or almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor. Alternatively, you can experiment with different fruit concentrates or purees such as orange, lime, or raspberry to create unique variations of the pie. Just be mindful of the balance of flavors and adjust the quantities accordingly to ensure that the filling remains smooth and creamy.