Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Pie

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You know those desserts that make everyone pause mid-bite and go whoa? This lemon cream cheese pie is exactly that. Smooth, tangy, lightly sweet, and wrapped in a buttery graham cracker crust—it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a signature dish without even trying.
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And the best part? It’s practically no-bake. No fancy techniques, no expensive ingredients. Just cream cheese, fresh lemon, and a simple method that anyone can master. Make it today, and tomorrow’s you will thank you—it’s even better chilled overnight!
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🍋 Lemon Cream Cheese Pie – Ingredients Table
🧾 Component | 🍽️ Ingredient | 📏 Amount |
---|---|---|
Pie Filling | Graham cracker crust | 1 (9-inch) |
Cream cheese (softened) | 2 packages (8 oz each) | |
Large eggs | 2 | |
Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | |
Lemon zest | 1 tablespoon (divided in half) | |
Sour Cream Topping | Sour cream | 1 cup |
Granulated sugar | ¼ cup | |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
👩🍳 How to Make It
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 350°F and ensure your cream cheese is super soft—it should feel like butter under gentle pressure.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs, sugar, vanilla, and half the lemon zest. Mix until velvety and lump-free.
Step 3: Assemble
Pour the filling into the graham crust and smooth the surface.
Step 4: Bake It
Bake for 30–35 minutes. Look for set edges and a slightly jiggly center—it’ll firm up beautifully as it cools.
Step 5: Whip Up the Topping
Mix sour cream with remaining sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest.
Step 6: Top It Off
Remove pie from the oven, let it cool briefly, then turn the oven up to 450°F. Spread the topping evenly over the pie.
Step 7: Flash Bake
Bake for 5 more minutes to gently set the topping.
Step 8: Chill Time
Cool on the counter, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Overnight chilling? Even better.
✨ Tips for Serving
- Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or candied lemon peel for flair.
- Serve chilled with whipped cream or a few fresh raspberries for color and contrast.
- This pie makes 8 generous slices—perfect for sharing or savoring solo across a few sweet days.