Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lemon Chess Pie?
It is a classic Southern dessert that balances sweetness with a tangy lemon flavor in a custard-like filling.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
What is the calorie count per slice?
Each slice contains approximately 250 calories.
What kind of pie crust is used for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a sour cream pie crust rolled to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
How much sugar is in the filling?
The filling requires 1 1/2 cups of sugar.
Is cornstarch used in this lemon chess pie?
Yes, 4 teaspoons of cornstarch are used to help thicken the filling.
How much lemon rind is needed?
You should use 2 teaspoons of finely grated lemon rind.
How many eggs are required for the recipe?
The recipe requires 4 eggs.
Should the eggs be at a specific temperature?
Yes, the eggs should be at room temperature for the best results.
How much lemon juice is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of fresh lemon juice.
How should the butter be prepared?
You need 5 tablespoons of butter that has been melted and cooled.
What is the initial oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for the crust.
Why do I need to prick the pie crust?
Pricking the bottom and sides with a fork prevents the crust from bubbling during baking.
How long do I pre-bake the crust?
Bake the crust for about 10 minutes at the initial temperature.
What is the baking temperature for the pie filling?
The temperature should be lowered to 330 degrees F (165 degrees C) once the crust is pre-baked.
How do I start mixing the filling?
Begin by combining the sugar and cornstarch in a large mixing bowl.
When should the lemon rind be added?
Add the finely grated lemon rind to the sugar and cornstarch mixture and stir.
How are the eggs incorporated into the filling?
Beat the eggs into the mixture one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
When is the fresh lemon juice added?
Pour in the lemon juice after the eggs have been fully mixed into the sugar base.
How do I incorporate the butter into the filling?
Gradually stir in the melted and cooled butter until the filling becomes smooth and creamy.
How long does the whole pie bake?
Bake the pie for 50 to 60 minutes.
How do I know when the pie is finished baking?
The pie is done when the filling is puffed and the top is golden brown.
Do I need to cool the pie before serving?
Yes, allow the pie to cool to room temperature before slicing and serving.
What are some recommended toppings for this pie?
It is delicious served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Is this a traditional Southern dish?
Yes, Lemon Chess Pie is a classic Southern recipe.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 9g of fat per serving.
What is the protein content per slice?
Each slice contains 3.125g of protein.
What size pie dish should be used?
A 9-inch pie dish is recommended for this recipe.
What is the texture of the finished filling?
The filling has a smooth, creamy, and custard-like consistency.
How many main ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: crust, sugar, cornstarch, lemon rind, eggs, lemon juice, and butter.