Lemon Custard Pie with Cream Cheese Layer Recipe
Introduction
Lemon custard pie is a timeless dessert that combines a tangy, sweet lemon filling with a creamy, rich cream cheese layer, all encased in a buttery crust. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon cold water
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Lemon Custard:
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg and cold water, mixing until the dough forms a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges.
5. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Spread the mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Custard
1. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, heavy cream, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
3. Pour the lemon custard over the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Bake and Chill
1. Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes or until the custard is set.
2. Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
History
Lemon custard pie has roots in European cuisine, where custard-filled pastries were popularized. Lemon’s inclusion brings a refreshing twist, enhancing the pie’s flavor profile. Over time, cream cheese was added to create a more decadent dessert.
Benefits
• Rich in Vitamin C: The lemon juice provides a good dose of Vitamin C, boosting the immune system.
• Calcium-Rich: The cream cheese and heavy cream offer calcium, essential for bone health.
• Mood Booster: The bright flavor of lemon is known to improve mood and reduce stress.
Formation
This pie’s formation involves layering the crust with cream cheese and lemon custard, each element contributing to the overall taste and texture.
Conclusion
Lemon custard pie with a cream cheese layer is a dessert that beautifully combines tangy and creamy elements, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. It’s perfect for gatherings or as a special treat for yourself.
Pie Lovers
This pie is adored by those who appreciate a balance of sweet and tart flavors, as well as anyone who enjoys creamy, rich desserts.
Nutrition (Per Slice)
• Calories: 350
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Calcium: 100mg
• Vitamin C: 10mg
Enjoy this delightful lemon custard pie with your loved ones, and indulge in its refreshing and creamy flavors!