Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie
Introduction
Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a delicious and refreshing dessert that combines creamy and zesty flavors in a delightful way. This pie is perfect for warm days and is sure to impress your family and friends. With a sweet graham cracker crust and a creamy filling packed with lemon goodness, this pie is a must-try for any dessert lover!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie is a great idea because it is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of cream cheese and lemonade creates a unique flavor that is both tangy and creamy. It’s an ideal dessert for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a special treat at home. Plus, this pie can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
How to Make Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create this delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup butter (melted)
- OR use 1 store-bought 9-inch graham cracker crust
- 1 (5 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant lemon pudding mix
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
- ¾ cup frozen lemonade concentrate (thawed)
Directions:
- Make crust (if using homemade) – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a deep dish pie pan, going up the sides. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove and cool completely.
- Prepare pudding base – In a small bowl, combine evaporated milk and instant pudding mix. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until thick and well combined.
- Beat cream cheese – In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Don’t rush this step!
- Add lemonade – Gradually beat the thawed lemonade concentrate into the cream cheese until smooth and well combined.
- Combine mixtures – Gradually beat the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until completely smooth and creamy.
- Assemble and chill – Spoon filling into cooled homemade crust or store-bought crust. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until completely set.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie
Serve this pie chilled, and feel free to add some fresh lemon slices or whipped cream on top for an extra touch. It makes for a beautiful presentation and enhances the lemon flavor!
How to Store Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator. Cover it well to keep it fresh. It’s best enjoyed within a few days but can stay tasty for about a week if stored properly.
Tips to Make Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie
- Make sure your cream cheese is well softened. This helps create a smooth filling.
- If you want a stronger lemon flavor, consider adding a bit of lemon zest to the mixture.
- To save time, using a store-bought graham cracker crust is perfectly fine and equally delicious!
Variation
You can experiment with flavors by using different kinds of pudding mixes, like vanilla or banana, to create different variations of this pie.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie is great for making ahead of time. Just prepare it and refrigerate as directed.
2. Can I use fresh lemonade instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh lemonade, but you’ll want to adjust the sweetness since fresh lemonade can vary in taste.
3. What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
You can substitute other types of crushed cookies, like Oreo or vanilla wafers, for a different flavor and texture.
Enjoy making and sharing this wonderful Cream Cheese Lemonade Pie!
