As I peeled away the layers of summer heat, a vision of a luscious dessert danced through my mind—the Ultra-Creamy Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie. This dish is a celebration of the perfect harmony between tart and sweet, blended into a silky filling that simply melts in your mouth, all nestled in a golden graham cracker crust. Not only is this lemon pie an easy dessert to whip up, but it also effortlessly elevates any gathering, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or just indulging yourself, imagine the delight on everyone’s faces as they savor each slice. Ready to dive into this citrusy bliss? Let’s make some magic happen in your kitchen!

Why is this lemon pie irresistible?

Indulge in an easy-to-make dessert that packs a punch of flavor! The combination of sweetened condensed milk and fresh lemon juice creates a creamy filling that perfectly balances tartness. Unique texture is delivered through a crunchy graham cracker crust, making each bite delightful. Versatile enough for any occasion, whether a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Plus, it’s a quick prep, letting you focus on what matters—enjoying time with loved ones. Check out our Chicken Pot Pie for another crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!

Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust
Graham cracker crumbs – Gives the pie its structure and is perfect for a gluten-free option if using gluten-free crackers.
Granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to compliment the tart lemon.
Unsalted butter, melted – This binds the crumbs together while adding richness to the crust.

For the Lemon Filling
Sweetened condensed milk – Creates a luscious, creamy texture that balances the tartness of the lemon.
Large egg yolks – Helps in setting the filling and adding a lovely creaminess; for best results, use room temperature yolks.
Fresh lemon juice – Brings that bright, tart flavor that shines in this lemon pie.
Finely grated lemon zest – Intensifies the lemon flavor and adds a fragrant aroma to the filling.

For the Whipped Topping
Heavy whipping cream, cold – Essential for a fluffy, creamy topping that complements the tart pie beautifully.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream for a delightful finish on top of the pie.
Vanilla extract – A splash of this deepens the flavor and adds richness to the topping.

This collection of ingredients is what makes the Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie an instant favorite for desserts!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9-inch pie plate with a little butter or cooking spray. This ensures the crust won’t stick, making it easy to slice and serve your delightful Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well-blended. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate—aim for a smooth, compact surface. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, and then let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the large egg yolks and finely grated lemon zest until smooth. Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, followed by the fresh lemon juice, ensuring all ingredients are fully combined. You’ll end up with a creamy filling that’s well-balanced in sweet and tart flavors, perfect for the Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie.

Step 4: Bake the Pie
Pour the luscious lemon filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the filling is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center; it will firm up as it cools. After baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to reach room temperature.

Step 5: Chill the Pie
Once the pie has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial, as it allows the filling to thicken and develop its flavors while ensuring a refreshing slice when serving your Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie.

Step 6: Whip the Topping
For the whipped topping, take cold heavy whipping cream and place it in a mixing bowl. Beat the cream with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until soft peaks form; this will take about 2-3 minutes on high speed. The whipped cream adds a light and fluffy finish to the rich pie.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled lemon pie, creating a beautiful, fluffy layer. For presentation, you can garnish with extra lemon zest or slices. When you’re ready to serve, slice the Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie and enjoy the burst of refreshing flavors with family and friends.

How to Store and Freeze Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie

Fridge: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap to maintain freshness while preventing condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the pie to the fridge and thaw overnight. Once thawed, whip up some fresh cream to top it for that ultimate Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie experience.

Reheating: This pie is best served chilled, so avoid reheating. Instead, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing to soften slightly for serving.

What to Serve with Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie

Pairing the perfect dishes with your tangy treat will elevate your dessert experience to a whole new level.

  • Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries brighten your plate and complement the pie’s tartness beautifully. Their vibrant color adds an enticing visual appeal.

  • Minted Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits tossed with fresh mint creates a refreshing side that enhances the lemony essence. This sweet and tangy harmony is perfect for summer gatherings.

  • Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold ice cream against the bright lemon filling creates a decadent contrast. The vanilla flavor enhances the pie without overpowering it.

  • Herbed Grilled Chicken: A savory grilled chicken infused with herbs adds depth to your meal. The simplicity of the chicken allows the lemon pie to shine as the star dessert!

  • Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of lemonade or lightly sweetened iced tea complements the pie’s citrus flavors perfectly. Choose herbal tea for a soothing touch.

  • Light Cheesecake: A fluffy, plain cheesecake offers a subtle sweetness and creamy texture without overshadowing the lemon pie. You can even serve the cheesecake topped with a drizzle of berry sauce for an inviting twist.

  • Mini Chocolate Mousse Cups: For a sumptuous dessert duo, serve rich, dark chocolate mousse in mini cups. The chocolate and lemon contrast beautifully, creating an indulgent end to your meal.

  • Lemon Sorbet: A light lemon sorbet serves as a cool, palate-cleansing treat alongside the pie. It enhances the citrus notes while providing a refreshing finish after the sweet and rich flavors of your dessert.

Expert Tips for Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie

  • Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest lemons for juice and zest to enhance the flavor of your lemon pie. The quality of your ingredients matters!

  • Perfect Crust: Avoid overbaking your graham cracker crust; 8 minutes is usually ideal. A burnt crust can interfere with the delightful balance of flavors.

  • Chill Well: Allow your pie to chill for a minimum of 2 hours. This helps it set properly, resulting in cleaner slices when served.

  • Whipping Cream: Ensure your cream is very cold before whipping; this significantly increases volume and creates the lightest topping for your Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie.

  • Adjusting Sweetness: Taste the filling before pouring it into the crust. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more sweetened condensed milk.

  • Knife Technique: For clean slices, use a hot knife to cut the pie, wiping it clean between each cut. This keeps presentation nice throughout serving!

Make Ahead Options

These Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie can be a true lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the graham cracker crust up to 3 days in advance and store it covered at room temperature to maintain its crunch. Additionally, you can make the lemon filling and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before pouring it into the crust; just make sure to whisk it again before combining. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the filling into the crust, bake it, and then cool it as directed. For the whipped topping, it’s best made fresh just before serving, as this will ensure it stays fluffy and light. Enjoy the convenience of having this delightful dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!

Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie Variations

Feel free to add your personal twist to this delightful lemon pie for even more flavor and fun!

  • Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs instead of regular ones for a gluten-free version without losing that beloved crunch.
  • Coconut Cream: Swap out the whipped topping with whipped coconut cream for a tropical flair that harmonizes beautifully with the lemon.
  • Lemon Blueberry Twist: Top the pie with fresh blueberries for a burst of color and flavor that complements the tartness of the lemon filling.
  • More Zest: Increase the finely grated lemon zest to 1.5 teaspoons for an extra citrusy punch that’ll brighten up every bite!
  • Mini Pies: Create individual servings by using a muffin tin instead of a pie plate; simply adjust baking time for smaller portions.
  • Crème Fraîche Swap: Substitute half of the sweetened condensed milk with crème fraîche for a delightful tang that cuts through the sweetness.
  • Honey Drizzle: Drizzle honey over the whipped topping for an added layer of sweetness and a rustic touch that elevates the dessert.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Finish it off with a rich dark chocolate drizzle for a decadent twist that your chocolate-loving guests will adore.

For another crowd-pleasing dessert, consider making our Chicken Pot Pie for a warm, comforting meal!

Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of lemons should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the most vibrant and zesty flavor, seek out fresh, ripe lemons that are firm and slightly heavy for their size. Look for lemons with smooth, bright yellow skin—avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles. When juicing, roll the lemon on the counter to help release more juice—this little trick makes a big difference!

How should I store leftover Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie?
To keep your luscious pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it loosely with plastic wrap to avoid moisture accumulation. If you’re planning to devour it within a couple of days, this keeps the flavors intact and prevents sogginess in the crust.

Can I freeze my Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie?
Yes, you can! If you want to enjoy this delightful pie later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and whip some fresh cream for the top!

What if my pie filling doesn’t set properly?
Very commonly, this can happen if the filling wasn’t baked long enough. It’s crucial to bake it just until set—it should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it. If you notice that it hasn’t set properly, you can return the pie to the oven for a few more minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on it!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely, this Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie can be made gluten-free by substituting traditional graham crackers with gluten-free options. For allergies, ensure that everyone is aware of the ingredients like eggs and dairy in the pie. It’s a great idea to check with guests if they have any specific dietary restrictions—better safe than sorry!

Can I adjust the sweetness of the filling?
Yes, feel free to tweak it! If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add more sweetened condensed milk to taste before pouring it into the crust. Mix ingredients thoroughly and always do a quick taste test to make sure it hits your sweet spot. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor!

Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie

Savor the Sunshine with Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie Delight

Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and tart with Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie, a creamy dessert in a graham cracker crust.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 33 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Graham Cracker Crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs use gluten-free for gluten-free option
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar for sweetness
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted to bind crumbs
For the Lemon Filling
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk for creaminess
  • 4 large egg yolks room temperature for best results
  • 0.5 cups fresh lemon juice for tart flavor
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest to enhance lemon flavor
For the Whipped Topping
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold for topping
  • 0.25 cups powdered sugar to sweeten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to deepen flavor

Equipment

  • 9-inch pie plate
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Electric mixer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Joanna Gaines Lemon Pie
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch pie plate.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press into the pie plate and bake for 8 minutes, then cool completely.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks and lemon zest until smooth. Gradually mix in sweetened condensed milk and lemon juice.
  4. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 10 minutes until just set. Allow to cool to room temperature.
  5. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to thicken the filling.
  6. Whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread over the chilled pie.
  7. Garnish with extra lemon zest or slices before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use the freshest lemons for a better flavor. Chill the pie well before serving for the best texture.

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