Lemon Custard Pie

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Lemon Custard Pie
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make Lemon Custard Pie
4. How To Serve Lemon Custard Pie
5. Why You'll Love This Lemon Custard Pie Recipe
6. Recipe FAQ
7. Serving FAQ
8. Storage FAQ
9. JUMP TO RECIPE

This creamy lemon custard pie is the perfect mix of sweet and tangy with a buttery, flaky crust. It’s smooth, rich, and bursting with bright lemon flavor in every bite. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or whenever you crave something refreshing and light.

This easy recipe includes step-by-step photos and directions to guide you. We’ve added pro tips, tricks, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you make the best pie every time.

This lemon custard pie is creamy, tangy, and sweet with a flaky crust. It takes just fifteen minutes to prep and bakes perfectly golden.

It’s great for parties, holidays, or a refreshing dessert at home. The rich lemon flavor makes every bite bright and satisfying.

What you'll need to make this easy Lemon Custard Pie recipe:

• 9" pie crust
• 1 cup sugar
• 6 eggs
• 2 tsp lemon zest
• ¼ tsp lemon oil or extract
• 3 cups milk
• ½ cup lemon curd
• whipped cream

Swap out ingredients and add delicious extras to make your lemon curd pie recipe uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:

• Substitute Crust: Use a graham cracker crust instead of traditional pie crust for a sweet, crunchy base.
• Add Lemon Zest: Boost the citrus flavor by adding extra lemon zest to the custard mixture.
• Add Berries: Top the pie with fresh blueberries or raspberries for a burst of color and added sweetness.

Follow along with our step-by-step pictures and instructions to make the perfect lemon custard pie. Check out the tips and tricks below for extra help. Let’s get started!

FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350°F.

SECOND STEP: In a large bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon oil. Add in the milk and continue whisking until thoroughly combined.

Bring milk and eggs to room temperature for the most even mixing. If you still have trouble getting the eggs fully incorporated, simply pour the custard mixture through a sieve on its way into the pie crust.

THIRD STEP: Pour the lemon filling into the nine-inch deep dish unbaked pie crust. If you do not have a deep dish pie crust, you may not use all the filling.

Do not overfill the pie crust.

If you use a store-bought pre-made crust in an aluminum foil pie pan, we recommend placing it inside a glass pie plate for added stability.

FOURTH STEP: Bake for 65 to 70 minutes, covering the crust after an hour with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to check your pie at the lower end of the recommended baking time.

FIFTH STEP: Remove the pie from the oven when the outer edges have puffed slightly and the center is slightly jiggly.

The pie may seem too jiggly to be done, but it will set after cooling and chilling.

SIXTH STEP: Allow the pie to cool completely. Gently spread the lemon curd to cover the top of the pie and then chill in the refrigerator for one to two additional hours.

SEVENTH STEP: Slice, top with whipped cream dollops, and serve.

Lemon pie is a bright, refreshing dessert that fits any occasion. Its sweet, tangy flavor pairs well with many treats.

• Perfect for Spring and Summer Gatherings: The zesty lemon flavor makes this pie great for picnics, BBQs, and outdoor parties. Serve it with raspberry iced tea or cherry cheesecake cookies for a cool, refreshing combo.
• Great for Holidays and Special Occasions: This pie’s creamy texture and bold flavor shine at Easter, Mother’s Day, or family celebrations. Pair it with strawberry shortcake brownies or mini apple cheesecakes for a festive dessert table.
• Kid-Friendly Dessert Option: Kids love the sweet, tangy taste and smooth texture. Serve small slices with sugar cookies or chocolate chip blondies for a fun treat.

Custard pie is a reader favorite for good reason. It’s easy, refreshing, and packed with bright, zesty flavor. Whether you’re baking for a party or just because, this pie always hits the sweet spot.

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and clear steps make this pie stress-free, even for beginner bakers.
• Bright, Refreshing Flavor: The bold lemon taste adds a fresh, tangy kick that’s perfect for any season.
• Creamy, Smooth Texture: Each bite is rich, silky, and melts in your mouth for the perfect dessert finish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, family gatherings, or just a casual treat at home.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults love the sweet, tangy combo with its buttery, flaky crust.

Lemon custard pie is simple, tasty, and always a hit. Give it a try—you’ll see why we love it!

What’s the best way to get a smooth lemon custard filling?
To get a smooth custard filling, whisk the mixture well and strain it before pouring it into the pie crust.

Do I need to pre-bake the pie crust for custard pie?
Yes, pre-baking the crust helps keep it crisp and prevents it from getting soggy with the custard filling.

How do I know when the lemon custard pie is done baking?
The lemon custard pie is done when the edges are set, but the center still jiggles slightly when you shake it gently.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice gives a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the pie.

Why did my pie crack on top?
Your lemon custard pie may crack if it’s over-baked. Remove it when the center is slightly jiggly to prevent cracking.

How do I prevent air bubbles in the custard filling?
To prevent air bubbles, whisk the custard gently and tap the filled pie pan lightly on the counter before baking.

Should I serve lemon custard pie warm or chilled? Custard pie tastes best chilled. The cool temperature helps the custard set and enhances the bright lemon flavor.

Can I add toppings when serving lemon pie?
Yes, you can add whipped cream, fresh berries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra flavor and color.

How do I get clean slices when serving lemon custard pie?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water. Wipe the knife clean between slices for neat, smooth cuts.

Is lemon custard pie good for outdoor events?
Yes, it’s great for outdoor events. Keep it chilled in a cooler until serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I serve custard pie with ice cream?
Yes, a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon flavor for a creamy, refreshing combination.

Follow these simple directions, tips, and tricks to keep your lemon custard pie fresh and delicious. Proper storage helps maintain its creamy texture and bright flavor, whether you’re making it ahead or saving leftovers.

Can I prepare lemon custard pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make lemon custard pie a day in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best way to store leftover lemon custard pie?
Store leftover lemon custard pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it refrigerated for up to three days.

Can I freeze lemon custard pie?
Freeze your baked lemon custard for up to one month.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy when storing?
Make sure the pie cools completely before refrigerating. This prevents excess moisture from softening the crust.

Should I cover lemon custard pie while storing it in the fridge?
Yes, cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors from the fridge.

Can I serve lemon custard pie straight from the fridge?
Yes, lemon custard pie tastes best chilled. Remove it from the fridge right before serving for the perfect texture and flavor.