Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie

Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the filling:
  • 1 whole lemon (seeds removed, but with the peel)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
   • Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
   • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Filling:
   • Cut the whole lemon into small pieces, removing any seeds but keeping the peel.
   • In a blender or food processor, combine the lemon pieces, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
   • Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the lemon filling into the prepared crust.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
   • Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Serve:
   • Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up.
   • Serve chilled, with a dollop of whipped cream and a lemon slice if desired.

Enjoy your Arizona Sunshine Lemon Pie!