Summertime calls for refreshing desserts without the heat of the oven. Enter the delightful Frozen Lemonade Pie – a light, sweet, and creamy treat perfect for beating the summer heat. With just four simple ingredients, including Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk, this pie is a breeze to whip up, especially when pantry staples are on hand.
Lemonade Pie offers a unique twist on traditional pies with its buttery graham cracker crust and a silky texture made from a blend of sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, and tangy lemonade. As someone who isn’t typically drawn to pies, this recipe has won me over with its sweet and slightly tart flavors that make it a poolside favorite.
For a guilt-free option, consider using Fat-Free Sugar-Free pudding mix and Lite Cool Whip to lighten up this indulgent dessert. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with pink lemonade variations, this Frozen Lemonade Pie is sure to become a summer staple in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
Creating a delicious Lemonade Pie is easy with just a few key ingredients. Check out the sections below for a breakdown of what you’ll need for both the crust and the filling, as well as optional garnishes to add an extra touch of flavor.
Crust Options
For the crust, you’ll need to choose between two delicious options:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (from about 15 graham cracker sheets)
- 12 cup butter, melted
- 13 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 8oz package cream cheese
Filling Ingredients
To create the luscious filling for your Lemonade Pie, gather these essential ingredients:
- 3 8-ounce containers frozen whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
- 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk
- 1 12-ounce can frozen lemonade concentrate
- 2 6-ounce or 9-inch deep dish prepared graham cracker crusts
Optional Garnishes
To elevate your Lemonade Pie and add some extra flair, consider these optional garnishes:
- 2 cups whipped cream (made with 8 ounces of heavy whipping cream and 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar)
- Lemon wedges for decoration
With these key ingredients in hand, you’re all set to whip up a delightful and refreshing Lemonade Pie that’s perfect for any occasion.
Equipment Needed
For this refreshing Frozen Lemonade Pie recipe, you will need a few kitchen essentials to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Here are the tools and equipment required:
- Electric hand mixer: To ensure the cream cheese is smooth and lump-free.
- Large mixing bowl: For combining and whipping the ingredients effectively.
- Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Whisk attachment: If using a stand mixer for whipping the heavy cream for the topping.
- Pie dish or pie plate: To hold and showcase the delicious lemonade pie.
- Freezer: For setting the pie crust and allowing the pie to chill and firm up before serving.
Having these essential tools ready will help you create a perfect Frozen Lemonade Pie effortlessly.
Instructions
Preparing the Crust
To start preparing the crust for the Lemonade Pie, you can choose between baking or not baking the graham cracker crust. If you opt to bake it, add 2 more tablespoons of butter to hold it together, pack the crumbs down firmly, and freeze it while making the filling. Alternatively, if you prefer not to bake the crust, follow the remaining steps as written ensuring the crust is firm and ready for the filling.
Making the Filling
For the delicious filling of the Lemonade Pie, combine a 6 oz can of thawed frozen lemonade concentrate, an 8 oz container of thawed frozen whipped topping, a 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest in a large bowl. Stir in the whipped topping until well mixed. Pour this creamy filling into the prepared crust and freeze for at least 4 hours until firm.
Assembling the Pie
After the filling has set and the pie is ready to be assembled, remove it from the freezer about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly for easy slicing. If you wish to top the pie with whipped cream, beat powdered sugar and 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the pie, garnish with additional lemon zest, and serve immediately. Leftovers can be stored covered in the freezer for up to 1 week for future enjoyment.
Chilling and Serving
Ideal Chilling Times
After assembling the luscious Lemonade Pie, it’s essential to allow it adequate time to chill and set properly. I recommend refrigerating the pie for at least 4 hours to overnight to ensure a firm and delightful texture that holds together beautifully. The chilling process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a perfectly refreshing dessert.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this delectable Lemonade Pie, there are a few ways to enhance its presentation and taste. For a finishing touch, consider topping each slice with an extra dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest to elevate the citrusy flavor profile. To add a decorative touch, garnish the pie with lemon wedges on the side of each slice. Serve the chilled Lemonade Pie on a hot summer day as a light and zesty treat that will surely impress your guests.
Variations of Lemonade Pie
Lemonade pie is a versatile dessert that can be customized in various ways. Here are two popular variations to try:
Frozen Lemonade Pie
For a classic take on lemonade pie, stick to the traditional recipe made with Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk, cream cheese, and a buttery graham cracker crust. This version offers a silky texture and a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Top it off with whipped cream and lemon wedges for a refreshing summer treat.
No-Bake Lemonade Pie
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider making a no-bake lemonade pie using Fat-Free Sugar-Free pudding mix and Lite Cool Whip. This version cuts down on calories and fat while still delivering that signature lemonade flavor. Serve it chilled for a delightful and guilt-free dessert. Add a garnish of whipped cream and lemon zest to enhance the presentation.
Storage Tips
After enjoying a slice (or two) of this delightful Lemonade Pie, you’ll want to ensure its freshness for future indulgence. Here are a few handy storage tips to keep your pie tasting its best:
Refrigeration:
Once you’ve savored your Lemonade Pie, cover it securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the refrigerator. The chilled environment will help maintain the pie’s creamy texture and preserve its tangy flavor.
Shelf Life:
For optimal taste and quality, consume the pie within 3-4 days of preparation. This ensures that the crust stays crisp and the filling retains its delectable creaminess.
Freezing:
If you wish to store your Lemonade Pie for a longer period, it is best to freeze it. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, allow the pie to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
Conclusion
I hope this article has inspired you to try out these delicious lemonade pie recipes. Whether you opt for the classic Frozen Lemonade Pie or the lighter No-Bake Lemonade Pie, both versions promise a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. By following the simple instructions and tips provided, you can easily create a refreshing summer dessert that will impress your family and friends. Remember to chill the pie for the best texture and flavor and consider the storage recommendations to keep it fresh. Get creative with your presentation by adding whipped cream, lemon zest, or lemon wedges. So, go ahead, whip up one of these lemonade pies, and enjoy a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite.