Frozen Lemonade Pie is a refreshing, tangy, and creamy dessert perfect for warm days or any time you crave a sweet, citrusy treat. Its light, zesty lemon flavor paired with a sweet, buttery crust makes it an irresistible dessert that’s easy to prepare and requires no baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pie is cool, creamy, and delightfully tangy with the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus. It’s incredibly simple to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert. The frozen texture adds a refreshing twist that makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Lemon slices or zest for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar (if using) until stiff peaks form.
- Mix Lemon Filling: In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until smooth.
- Fold Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until fully incorporated and light and fluffy.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the lemon filling into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
- Freeze: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Serve: Remove from the freezer about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon slices or extra zest if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 8 servings. Prep time is 15 minutes, and freezing time is at least 4 hours.
Variations
- Key Lime Version: Substitute lemon juice with key lime juice for a tangy twist.
- Berry Topping: Add a layer of fresh berries or berry compote on top before freezing.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top before serving.
- Crust Alternatives: Use a chocolate cookie crust or shortbread crust for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the pie frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Serving: Allow the pie to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing for easier serving.
- Avoid Freezer Burn: Wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for longer storage.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade graham cracker crust?
Yes, a homemade graham cracker crust works beautifully and adds extra flavor.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. This pie can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and stored in the freezer.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I make individual servings?
Yes, layer the lemon filling in small cups or jars for single-serving frozen desserts.
Can I substitute the whipped cream?
You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
How do I prevent the pie from being too tart?
Adjust the sugar in the whipped cream or add a little more sweetened condensed milk to balance the tartness.
Can I add gelatin to make it firmer?
Yes, adding a small amount of gelatin can help set the pie more firmly, but it’s optional.
Can I top it with meringue?
Yes, lightly torched meringue can be added on top for extra elegance.
Can I make a sugar-free version?
Yes, use sugar-free sweetened condensed milk and a sugar substitute in the whipped cream.
Can I freeze slices individually?
Yes, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for easy servings.
Conclusion
Frozen Lemonade Pie is a simple, refreshing, and tangy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, bright lemon flavor, and easy preparation make it a summer favorite. With variations and make-ahead options, this pie is versatile, crowd-pleasing, and effortlessly delicious.
Print
Frozen Lemonade Pie
- Total Time: 4–6 hours (including freezing time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Frozen Lemonade Pie is a refreshing, tangy, and creamy dessert perfect for warm days. It combines a sweetened lemon filling with a graham cracker crust, frozen to create a light, icy treat.
Ingredients
- 1 prepared graham cracker crust (9-inch)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture until fully combined.
- Pour the filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top.
- Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4–6 hours or until firm.
- Before serving, let pie sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to soften slightly. Garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Notes
- For extra tang, increase lemon juice by 1–2 tablespoons.
- This pie can be made a day ahead and stored in the freezer.
- Optional: sprinkle a little extra lemon zest on top for a fresh look and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg