Delicious Lemon Icebox Pie Recipe – Easy and Refreshing!

If you’re looking for a dessert that will leave everyone clamouring for another slice, then look no further than Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie! This mouth-watering pie is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, with a velvety texture that will have your taste buds singing with joy.

Luby’s Cafeteria has been serving up classic American dishes for over 75 years, and their lemon icebox pie has become a staple favourite. This recipe has been carefully honed to perfection, and now you can enjoy this iconic dish from the comfort of your own kitchen.

The key to this pie is in the balance of ingredients. The graham cracker crust provides a crunchy base that complements the smooth filling perfectly. The tartness of the fresh lemon juice is balanced by the sweetness of the condensed milk, while the grated lemon peel adds just the right amount of zing.

And let’s not forget about the history behind this dessert. Luby’s Cafeteria has been a beloved institution in Texas and beyond since it was first established in 1947. The Lemon Icebox Pie has been on their menu for decades and has stood the test of time as a fan favourite.

So whether you’re making this pie to impress your friends at your next dinner party or just looking for a simple yet delicious dessert to enjoy with your family, Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie simply cannot be beaten. Get ready to savour every delicious bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Picture this: It’s a hot summer’s day and you’re enjoying a refreshing meal with your loved ones. You’re indulging in a mouth-watering piece of Lemon Icebox Pie, the perfect dessert to end your feast on a high note. The tangy and zesty flavor from fresh lemons, the velvety smoothness of sweetened condensed milk, all resting on top of the buttery graham cracker crust is what makes this pie unique.

What sets this recipe apart is that it’s not just any ordinary icebox pie. This is Luby’s Cafeteria’s signature Lemon Icebox Pie recipe – an iconic dish that has been served since 1947. By following our recipe, you’ll be able to recreate this legendary dessert from the comfort of your own home.

This tantalizing dessert is great for those who enjoy baking but don’t want to slave away for hours in front of a hot oven. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this showstopping dessert without breaking a sweat.

Whether you’re a fan of sweet or tangy flavors or both, this Lemon Icebox Pie will surely satisfy your taste buds. The creamy texture of the filling provides a wonderful contrast to the crunchy texture of the graham cracker crust.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for an easy yet impressive dessert to impress your dinner guests, or simply looking for something cool and refreshing on a hot day, the Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie Recipe is just what you need. It’s no wonder why this recipe has been beloved by generations – it’s simply unforgettable!

Ingredient List

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons of melted butter

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 tablespoon of grated lemon peel
• 4 extra-large eggs, separated
• 1⁄2 cup of fresh lemon juice (about 3 to 4 lemons)
• 2 cans (14 oz each) of sweetened condensed milk

Ingredient Notes
Graham Cracker Crust

The graham cracker crust is a perfect match for this tangy and sweet dessert. Instead of buying ready-made crusts at the store, it’s best to make your own. It will only take a few minutes, and you’ll love the difference in taste.

Fresh Lemons

Using fresh lemons is vital to get the perfect zesty flavor in your pie. Avoid using bottled lemon juice as it has preservatives and doesn’t bring out the same intensity in taste as using fresh ones.

Sweetened Condensed Milk

Sweetened condensed milk gives this pie its creamy texture and sweetness. Be sure not to confuse it with evaporated milk as they have different textures and will yield different results in your recipe.

So, before moving on to the recipe instructions, make sure you have all the ingredients ready with you. It’s time to turn on our ovens and create something special!

The Recipe How-To

It’s time to make the star of the show- Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie. Here’s a step by step guide on how to make this delightful dessert.

Step 1: Preheat the oven and make the crust

First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Then, make the graham cracker crust. Combine 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons of melted butter in a mixing bowl. Mix it well.

Pour this mixture into a 9-inch pie pan, and press it tightly onto the bottom and sides of the pan. You can use a flat-bottomed measuring cup or glass to press it down evenly.

Step 2: Make the filling

Savor the zesty flavor of lemon with this creamy custard-like filling for our Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie. Take out another mixing bowl, pour in 2 cans (28 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk followed by 4 egg yolks (keep aside the egg whites).

Whisk everything until it’s smooth. Add 1 tablespoon of grated lemon peel, 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice squeezed from about 4 lemons, and mix well again until everything is incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble and bake

Pour this delicious mixture into the prepared crust that you’ve made earlier. Put it in the oven, and let it bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes until it’s set.

Step 4: Meringue topping (optional)

At this point, you could create your meringue topping using these ingredients- 4 egg whites, beaten till frothy, add in gradually 6 tablespoons granulated sugar while mixing until stiff peaks form.

Spread this meringue over the surface of the top-most layer of Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie (fresh from an oven) using a spatula, spreading completely so that the edges are sealed well. Then increase your oven temperature to a hot oven heat at around 375 °F (190 °C) and pop your pie back inside just long enough for the edges of its meringue cover turn golden which should take around 10 minutes.

Step 5: Chill

That’s right! Heat is overrated when you can be cool as a cucumber chilling away making sure our Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie has time to set up correctly. Leave at room temperature for around ten minutes before refrigerating it for at least 2-3 hours or better still overnight so that it reaches that perfect consistency that renders it almost magical!

Feel free to garnish your aromatic creation with trusted toppings like whipped cream or lemon peel before serving.

Now dig in and enjoy every scrumptious slice!

Substitutions and Variations

There are a few ways to take this Lemon Icebox Pie recipe to the next level, or change it up if you’re feeling adventurous. Here are some ideas:

– Graham cracker crust: Instead of a graham cracker crust, try using a pastry crust, vanilla wafer crust, or even an Oreo crust for extra chocolate flavor.

– Lemon peel: If you don’t have fresh lemon peel on hand, try using lemon extract instead. You’ll only need a drop or two to add that signature tartness.

– Extra-large eggs: If you don’t have extra-large eggs, use two large eggs instead.

– Sweetened condensed milk: For a lower-sugar option, try using fat-free sweetened condensed milk.

– Luby’s Chocolate Icebox Pie: To make Luby’s famous Chocolate Icebox Pie recipe, substitute the lemon juice and zest for cocoa powder and use a chocolate cookie crust instead.

– Lemon Meringue Pie: Turn this icebox pie into a classic Lemon Meringue Pie by adding meringue on top and baking it in the oven until it turns golden brown.

Whatever substitutions or variations you choose to make with this recipe, make sure to test it out beforehand to ensure the result turns out delicious.

Serving and Pairing

When it comes to serving and pairing this delicious lemon icebox pie, you have various options to choose from. First and foremost, you want to make sure that the pie has chilled in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This way, you will serve your guests a refreshing and creamy dessert that tastes just like heaven.

To add more pizzazz to your lemon icebox pie, you can serve it with whipped cream on top. The whipped cream will complement the tangy flavor of the lemon filling which adds a smooth balance to each bite. You can either opt for freshly whipped cream or use store-bought whipped cream. However, if you choose store-bought cream, be sure to look for a high-quality brand that is not too sweet and retains its fluffiness for longer time.

Another great way to pair your lemon icebox pie is by serving it with fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries. The tartness of the berries will counterbalance the sweetness of the condensed milk in the pie while giving it a pop of color and contrast on your plate.

If you are feeling adventurous, try serving your Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie with a hot beverage such as coffee or tea. The hot drink will contrast nicely with the coldness of the pie and cleanse your palate between bites.

Lastly, you can also serve this pie along with some other classic desserts such as Luby’s Chocolate Cream Pie or Piccadilly Cafeteria’s Lemon Meringue Pie as part of an array of pies alternatively served together. When paired with other treats, this lemon icebox pie will leave a lasting impression on everyone’s taste buds.

No matter how you choose to serve and pair this incredible dessert, one thing is certain: it is a favorite among those who love to indulge in sweet citrus flavorings!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

When it comes to make-ahead Lemon Icebox Pie, you will be happy to hear that this dessert can remain fresh for several days. Prepared pies should be covered tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerated for at least 2-3 hours or until chilled. It is recommended that you store the pie in the refrigerator for up to two days while making sure that it remains covered.

The Lemon Icebox Pie can also be prepared ahead of time and frozen. If you are looking to freeze your pie, simply wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Be sure to label the package with the date, so that you can keep track of how long it has been stored in the freezer.

When reheating the Lemon Icebox Pie, avoid using a microwave as this may result in a watery texture. Instead, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie on the middle rack. Let it bake for roughly 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Do not overheat as this may result in curdling or burning.

Whether you want some sweetness for your sudden cravings or would like a handy dessert option after dinner parties, Lemon Icebox Pie is definitely what you need. When made-ahead with strict storage guidelines where refrigeration or freezing are maximized, this dessert assures freshness on your first bite regardless of when you prepared it. With reheating tips and best practices all laid out for you above, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy its creamy texture and tart flavors any time you please!

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to making the perfect lemon icebox pie, paying attention to detail is key. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure that your Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie Recipe turns out perfectly every time.

1. Don’t Overmix Your Filling

While it’s important to mix your ingredients thoroughly, overmixing can lead to a runny filling. Be sure to mix until everything is just combined for the best results.

2. Use Fresh Lemon Juice and Lemon Peel

Fresh lemon juice and lemon peel have a brighter and more intense flavor compared to their bottled counterparts. Trust me, it makes all the difference in this recipe.

3. Chill Your Pie for At Least 4 Hours

We know that it can be hard to wait for your freshly made pie, but chilling your pie for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) is crucial for a firm and sliceable filling.

4. Pre-Bake Your Graham Cracker Crust

Pre-baking your graham cracker crust helps ensure a crisp and sturdy crust that won’t get soggy from the filling.

5. Use Room Temperature Eggs

It’s important to let your eggs come to room temperature before using them in this recipe. Room temperature eggs mix together more easily which can help with both the texture and flavor of your finished pie.

6. Meringue It Up!

If you want to take this pie up a notch, adding a fluffy meringue topping is the way to go! Just make sure to spread it over the hot filling before popping it back in the oven to bake until lightly golden brown.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a legendary Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie that will impress anyone who takes a bite!

Bottom Line

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So there you have it! The coveted recipe for Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie. I hope that you’ll give this recipe a try and discover why it has become such an iconic dessert.

Indulging in a slice of lemon icebox pie warms the heart, fills the belly and is sure to put a smile on your face. It’s perfect for a summer barbecue, potluck or any occasion where you want to show off your skills in the kitchen.

By using fresh ingredients and following the recipe’s simple steps, you can create a delectable dessert that will impress your family and friends.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves and get to baking! The result will be a sweet treat worth savoring.

And who knows, with enough practice and experimentation, you might just come up with your own spin on this classic recipe that could rival even Luby’s Cafeteria.

So don’t hesitate! Follow this recipe, grab a fork, and enjoy every bite of this delicious Luby’s Cafeteria Lemon Icebox Pie.

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