Lemon Blueberry Cream Delight Pie is a symphony of flavors that perfectly encapsulates the essence of late summer. The tangy lemon and sweet blueberries come together in a creamy filling that sits snugly in a buttery crust. This pie is an ideal dessert for leisurely gatherings or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Using fresh ingredients, this pie is vibrant in flavor and visually stunning, making it a great centerpiece for any dessert table.
Detailed Ingredients
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity. A few key ingredients come together to create a masterpiece:
– 9-inch pre-baked pie crust: This time-saver provides a crisp base for your pie and allows the creamy filling to shine. For those who enjoy making their own crust, a simple buttery crust recipe will enhance the flavors.
– 1 cup fresh blueberries, plus extra for garnish: Fresh blueberries bring a burst of color and sweetness. They create a delightful contrast with the zesty lemon cream.
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, this creates a light and airy texture when folded into the cream cheese mixture.
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese adds richness and a slight tang, offering a smooth base for the filling.
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Provides sweetness without grittiness, dissolving easily into the filling.
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice & 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key to achieving the pie’s vibrant flavor. The zest adds an aromatic punch.
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the other flavors without overpowering them.
– 1/4 cup blueberry preserves (optional, for topping): Adds a glossy finish and intensified blueberry flavor.
– Mint leaves (for garnish, optional): Introduce a fresh note and decorative element.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
With preparation time clocking in at only 20 minutes and no baking required, this pie is a quick yet impressive dessert. However, allow at least 3 hours for chilling, making the total time 3 hours and 20 minutes. This recipe yields approximately eight servings, perfect for small gatherings.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Begin by whipping the heavy cream in a medium-sized bowl until it forms stiff peaks. Properly whipped cream holds shape and provides the desired fluffy texture. Set it aside once it reaches the right consistency.
2. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Ensuring there are no lumps is crucial for a smooth filling.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat these ingredients together until fully combined, resulting in a smooth and citrusy mixture.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Take your time with this step to retain the airiness of the whipped cream without deflating it.
5. Spread half of this creamy mixture evenly into the pre-baked pie crust, forming the first layer.
6. Evenly sprinkle one cup of fresh blueberries over the cream layer. This ensures that each bite is balanced with berries.
7. Spoon the remaining cream mixture over the blueberries, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even and appealing finish.
8. If you’ve opted to use blueberry preserves, gently heat them in a small saucepan until they’re spreadable. Drizzle the preserves over the top of the pie for added flavor and a decorative touch.
9. Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill it for at least 3 hours. This step ensures the pie is set and ready to slice.
10. Before serving, garnish the pie with additional fresh blueberries and mint leaves for a pop of color and fresh aroma.
Notes
– Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
– Fresh lemon juice is ideal for this recipe; its acidity and flavor surpass bottled varieties.
– This pie can be made a day ahead. Just cover it loosely with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge.
Cooking Techniques-FAQ
– How to ensure the whipped cream forms stiff peaks: Use chilled cream and a chilled bowl for best results. Whip the cream at medium-high speed until trails become visible, and the cream holds peaks that don’t droop.
– Can I use frozen blueberries?: Fresh blueberries are recommended, but frozen can be an alternative. Thaw and drain them well before use to prevent excess moisture from affecting the pie’s texture.
– What if I don’t have a pre-baked crust?: You can make your own using crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits mixed with melted butter. Press this mixture into a pie dish and set it in the fridge.
Conclusion
This Lemon Blueberry Cream Delight Pie is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients. It captures the essence of summer in every slice and provides a bright, refreshing finish to any meal. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation and flavor, it’s bound to become a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks.
More Recipes Suggestions and Combination
– Lemon Raspberry Cream Pie: Substitute blueberries with raspberries for an equally delightful treat.
– Strawberry Lemon Cream Tart: Use a tart shell and swap blueberries for fresh strawberries.
– Coconut Lime Cream Pie: For a tropical twist, replace lemon with lime and add shredded coconut to the cream cheese mixture.
– Mixed Berry Trifle: Layer this filling with layers of pound cake and a mix of seasonal berries for a visually appealing trifle.
Each variation builds on the core lemon cream base, allowing you to play with different flavors and textures, adapting the recipe to suit different tastes and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy experimenting with these combinations and find your favorite way to enjoy the delicious Lemon Blueberry Cream Delight Pie.
