With its vibrant citrus flavor and irresistibly creamy texture, this Meyer Lemon Pie is a standout dessert that’s incredibly simple to make. Using just five ingredients and a blender, you’ll have this tart and sweet pie ready in under an hour. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a refreshing treat, this easy Meyer Lemon Pie recipe brings together convenience, flavor, and elegance in every slice.
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Why You’ll Love This Meyer Lemon Pie
This pie is all about ease and flavor. The use of a blender makes the preparation nearly effortless, while the naturally sweeter and more floral Meyer lemons create a custard that’s smooth and bright. With no need for zesting or separating eggs, this Meyer Lemon Pie is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
- Quick and Simple: Just five ingredients and a blender — no mixers or complicated steps required.
- Bright and Balanced Flavor: Meyer lemons bring a gentle sweetness and floral undertone that regular lemons can’t match.
- Perfect for Any Season: Refreshing in spring and summer, yet rich enough for a winter citrus dessert.
Essential Ingredients for Meyer Lemon Pie
• Meyer Lemons (juice only): The star ingredient, offering a fragrant, less acidic citrus base.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the custard set smoothly.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling while balancing the tartness of the lemon.
• Butter (melted): Adds richness and contributes to the velvety texture of the pie.
• Prepared Pastry Shell: A convenient, crisp base that holds the luscious lemon filling.
Smart Swaps and Dietary Alternatives
• Regular Lemons: If Meyer lemons aren’t available, use regular lemons with a splash of orange juice to reduce sharpness.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Use a certified gluten-free pie shell for celiac-friendly baking.
• Plant-Based Butter: Substitute with vegan butter to make the pie dairy-free.
• Natural Sweeteners: Monk fruit or coconut sugar can be used, but may slightly alter the taste and color.
How to Make Meyer Lemon Pie – Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking from the start.
- Blend the Filling: Combine sugar, eggs, and Meyer lemon juice in a blender. Blend until smooth (about 3 minutes).
- Add the Butter: Pour melted butter into the blender and blend for another 30 seconds to fully incorporate.
- Pour into Shell: Transfer the blended lemon mixture into your prepared pastry shell.
- Bake: Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is just set.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes to fully set. For cleaner slices, chill in the fridge for 2 hours.
Bonus Tip: You can also make 12 mini Meyer Lemon Pies using tartlet shells. Bake these for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Results
- Don’t Overbake: Remove the pie when the center is just barely set to retain a silky texture.
- Use Fresh Juice Only: Bottled lemon juice lacks the aromatic complexity of fresh Meyer lemons.
- Chill for Best Texture: A few hours in the fridge helps the filling firm up beautifully.
- Whipped Cream Optional: Serve with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a light finish.
Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations
• Graham Cracker Crust: Add a crunchy, nutty contrast by switching to a graham cracker base.
• Toasted Meringue Topping: Spread meringue over the pie and torch for a bakery-style twist.
• Fresh Berry Garnish: Top with raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for visual appeal and tart balance.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the pie a day early and store in the fridge for up to three days.
Why Meyer Lemons Make This Pie Extraordinary
Meyer lemons — a cross between standard lemons and mandarins — offer a lower-acid, sweeter juice that’s ideal for desserts. Their thin skin and floral notes make them perfect for a silky custard pie. If traditional lemon pie feels too sharp or acidic, this Meyer Lemon Pie delivers a softer, aromatic citrus flavor that’s bright but balanced.
Conclusion
When you’re looking for a dessert that’s both effortless and impressive, Meyer Lemon Pie checks all the boxes. It’s silky, tangy, and just sweet enough to satisfy your citrus cravings without overwhelming your palate. With only five ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, weekend brunches, or special occasions. Plus, the natural sweetness and floral undertones of Meyer lemons elevate this classic into something truly unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it chilled in the summer or brightening a winter table, this pie is a versatile go-to that you’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Meyer Lemon Pie
Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, you can substitute regular lemons if Meyer lemons aren’t available. However, regular lemons are more tart and acidic, so reduce the juice slightly or balance it with a splash of orange juice for a more rounded flavor. The unique floral notes of Meyer lemons will be missing, but the pie will still be delicious.
How do I know when Meyer Lemon Pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when gently shaken — similar to how you’d test a cheesecake. Avoid overbaking, as the custard will continue to firm up while cooling. Letting the pie rest for at least 15 minutes after baking (or chilling it) will ensure it slices cleanly.
Can Meyer Lemon Pie be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. This pie is actually better when made ahead. Bake and cool it fully, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and the texture sets beautifully. If you’re serving it for an event, making it a day in advance will save you time and stress.
More Relevant Recipes
- Meyer Lemon Cake – Moist Citrus Dessert: This luscious lemon cake delivers a moist, buttery crumb with the same citrusy brightness you love in a Meyer Lemon Pie. It’s a perfect companion recipe if you’re looking to explore more baked goods using Meyer lemons.
- Meyer Lemon Muffins Recipe: Bursting with sweet-tart lemon flavor, these muffins are a breakfast-friendly twist on Meyer Lemon Pie. They’re soft, fluffy, and perfect for citrus dessert fans who want a quick, on-the-go treat.
- Meyer Lemon Crinkle Cookies: With their chewy centers and powdered sugar coating, these cookies capture the essence of Meyer Lemon Pie in bite-sized form. Ideal for citrus dessert lovers looking for a fun, portable option.
Meyer Lemon Pie
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 (9-inch) pie or 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Meyer Lemon Pie is a silky, tangy dessert made with just five simple ingredients. Blended to perfection and baked in a buttery pastry shell, it offers a smooth custard-like texture with the floral sweetness of Meyer lemons. Ideal for citrus lovers and perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tartness of the lemons
- 3 large eggs: Helps set the filling and provides structure
- 1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice: Provides a sweet-tart citrus flavor
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and smooth texture
- 1 (9-inch) prepared pastry shell: Holds the lemon custard filling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a blender, combine the sugar, eggs, and Meyer lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth, about 3 minutes.
- Add the melted butter and blend for another 30 seconds until fully incorporated.
- Pour the blended lemon mixture into the prepared pastry shell.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is just set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Remove from oven and let the pie rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before slicing. For firmer texture, chill before serving.
Notes
- Use only fresh Meyer lemon juice for the best flavor.
- You can make mini versions using tart shells — bake for 20–25 minutes.
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 pie)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 105mg