Brûléed Lemon Chess Pie Recipe

### 🍋🍮 Brûléed Lemon Chess Pie Recipe 🍮🍋

This **Brûléed Lemon Chess Pie** is a delightful dessert that combines a tangy lemon filling with a crispy, caramelized sugar topping. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a sweet-tart flavor profile and a bit of elegance in their dessert presentation. Let’s dive into the recipe!

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### **Ingredients:**

– **1 pre-made pie crust** 🥧
– You can use a store-bought crust or make your own if you prefer.

– **1 1/2 cups granulated sugar** 🍬
– This sweetens the pie and contributes to the brûlée topping.

– **1 tablespoon cornmeal** 🌽
– Adds texture and helps to set the filling.

– **1 tablespoon all-purpose flour** 🌾
– Thickens the filling and provides stability.

– **1/4 teaspoon salt** 🧂
– Enhances the flavor of the pie.

– **1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted** 🧈
– Adds richness and flavor to the filling.

– **1/4 cup fresh lemon juice** 🍋
– Provides the tartness that defines this pie.

– **1 tablespoon lemon zest** 🍋
– Adds a fragrant citrus flavor.

– **4 large eggs** 🥚
– Gives structure to the filling.

– **1/4 cup whole milk** 🥛
– Adds creaminess to the filling.

– **1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for brûlée topping)** 🍬
– This will be caramelized for the crispy topping.

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### **Instructions:**

#### 1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.

#### 2. **Prepare the Pie Crust:**
– Roll out the **pre-made pie crust** and fit it into a **9-inch pie dish**. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

#### 3. **Make the Filling:**
– In a large bowl, whisk together **1 1/2 cups granulated sugar**, **cornmeal**, **flour**, and **salt** until combined.
– Add the **melted butter**, **fresh lemon juice**, and **lemon zest**, mixing until well combined.
– Whisk in the **eggs** and **whole milk** until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

#### 4. **Pour and Bake:**
– Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
– Bake for **45-50 minutes**, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

#### 5. **Cool the Pie:**
– Let the pie cool completely at room temperature. This allows the filling to firm up.

#### 6. **Brûlée the Topping:**
– Before serving, sprinkle **1 tablespoon of granulated sugar** evenly over the top of the cooled pie.
– Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the pie under a broiler for a few minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

#### 7. **Serve:**
– Slice the pie and serve immediately. Enjoy the contrasting textures of the creamy filling and crispy topping!

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### **Prep & Nutritional Info:**

– **Prep Time:** 20 minutes
– **Total Time:** 1 hour 10 minutes
– **Servings:** 8
– **Calories:** Approximately 300-350 calories per slice (calories may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes).

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### **Serving Suggestions:**

– Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
– Garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

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### **Tips for Success:**

– **Chill the Pie:** Make sure to allow the pie to cool completely before adding the brûlée topping for the best texture.
– **Even Sugar Layer:** When sprinkling the sugar, try to keep it even to ensure uniform caramelization.
– **Torch Safety:** Be cautious when using a kitchen torch; keep it moving to avoid burning the sugar.

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### **Final Thoughts:**

This **Brûléed Lemon Chess Pie** is a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Its balance of sweet and tart flavors, along with the delightful crunch of the caramelized sugar, makes it a memorable treat. Enjoy your baking! 🍋✨