Lemon Pies. Mary Ault. Recipe

Recipe for Lemon Pies

History of the Recipe:

Lemon pies have been a cherished dessert for centuries, known for their tangy and refreshing flavors. The recipe for Lemon Pies has roots that go back generations, passed down through families and shared in community cookbooks. This delightful dessert has become a staple in many households, especially during the warmer months when the zesty taste of lemons is particularly appealing.

Fun Facts:

1. Lemon pies are believed to have originated in Medieval Europe, where lemons were considered a luxury ingredient. The first recorded lemon pie recipe dates back to the 14th century.

2. Lemon trees were brought to the Americas by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage in 1493. This led to the popularity and widespread cultivation of lemons, making them more easily accessible for cooking and baking.

3. Lemons are not only delicious but also have several health benefits. They are a great source of Vitamin C and are known for their detoxifying and immune-boosting properties.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Lemon Pies.

Ingredients:
- 1 lemon
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups of sugar
- 1 ½ cups of water

Crust:
- 1 cup of lard
- A pinch of salt
- 3 cups of flour

Instructions:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prepare the crust by combining the lard, salt, and flour in a mixing bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to blend the ingredients together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Gradually add cold water, a few tablespoons at a time, to bring the dough together. Mix until the dough forms a ball that holds together. Avoid overmixing.

4. Divide the dough into three equal portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to fit your pie pans. Gently transfer the rolled-out crusts to the pans, pressing them into the bottom and sides.

5. In a saucepan, combine the lemon, egg, cornstarch, sugar, and water for the custard. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are fully combined.

6. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the custard mixture, stirring constantly until it thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

7. Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

8. Pour the custard into the prepared pie crusts, distributing it evenly among the three pies.

9. Bake the lemon pies in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is set.

10. Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool completely before serving. For an extra touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar or garnish with lemon zest.

Enjoy these tangy and delightful lemon pies at any time of the year, but they are especially refreshing during the warmer months.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoy lemon-flavored desserts, here are a few other dishes you might want to try:

1. Lemon Bars: These delicious sweet treats feature a buttery crust topped with a tangy lemon filling and dusted with powdered sugar.

2. Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic pie combines the tartness of lemons with a fluffy meringue topping, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

3. Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: This moist and tender cake is infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, complemented by the addition of poppy seeds for a delightful crunch.

4. Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: Add a zesty twist to your breakfast with these light and fluffy pancakes made with ricotta cheese and fresh lemon juice. Serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

These are just a few examples of the many ways you can incorporate the bright and citrusy flavor of lemons into your favorite desserts. Get creative and explore the endless possibilities of lemon-infused treats!