I absolutely love sharing this Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe because it feels like sunshine in dessert form. There’s something magical about those thinly sliced Meyer lemons that soak up sugar overnight, creating a glossy, bright filling that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat or impressing friends at a dinner party, this pie’s vibrant citrus flavor and stunning presentation make it worth every minute in the kitchen.

When I first tried this pie, I was amazed at how simple ingredients came together for such a standout dessert. You’ll find that the Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe is perfect for spring and summer seasons, but honestly, it’s a refreshing pick-me-up any time of year. Plus, it’s flexible enough to suit your preferences with different crust options, so it’s a pie that truly fits your style.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bright, fresh flavor: Meyer lemons bring a unique tart-sweet balance that’s less harsh than regular lemons, making the pie pop with freshness.
  • Simple prep with impressive results: Just a few ingredients combined with a little patience and you’ve got a show-stopping dessert.
  • Versatile crust options: Whether you prefer a single crust showing off lemon slices or a double crust for a classic look, both work beautifully.
  • Overnight soaking step: Letting the lemons rest with sugar unlocks incredible flavor and tender texture, a step you don’t want to skip.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe are refreshingly simple, yet each one plays a crucial role. I recommend using the freshest Meyer lemons you can find — their sweeter citrus flavor truly makes this dish shine.

  • Pie crust (single or double crust): I love a single crust to showcase those delicate lemon slices, but double crust works if you want a traditional pie style.
  • Meyer lemons: Use about six; they’re sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons, perfect for this pie.
  • Granulated sugar: Adjust the amount based on your tartness preference or how sweet your lemons are.
  • Cornstarch: Adds that slightly thickened, custardy texture you’ll love.
  • Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and brighten flavors.
  • Large eggs: They bind everything together for that perfect set pie filling.
  • Sweetened whipped cream (optional): For serving, adds a dreamy, light touch that pairs wonderfully with the citrus.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of my favorite things about the Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe is how easy it is to adapt to your tastes or dietary needs. Over time, I’ve experimented with all sorts of tweaks that you might want to try too!

  • Gluten-free crust: I switched to a gluten-free pie crust once for a friend, and it turned out just as delicious – no one missed the traditional crust.
  • Extra tart version: If you like your pie extra tangy, bump up the lemon slices and reduce sugar slightly; it keeps things bright and lively.
  • Double crust option: Sometimes I cover the pie with a lattice top to trap the lemon aroma; it’s pretty and adds a bit of extra texture contrast.
  • No sugar whipped cream: For a lighter finish, skip the sweetened cream and serve with fresh berries instead.

How to Make Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe

Step 1: Slice the Meyer Lemons Paper Thin

The key to this pie’s stunning look is those ultra-thin lemon slices. I swear by my mandoline slicer here — it makes slicing consistent, thin discs a breeze. Take your time and try to remove seeds as you go; it’s a bit fiddly but worth it. You want about 2¾ to 3 cups of these slices, plus the fresh juice they release. Trust me, the soaking step that follows is where all that citrus magic happens.

Step 2: Combine Lemons with Sugar and Let Them Rest

Once sliced, put your lemons in a non-metallic bowl (glass or ceramic is best) and stir in all the sugar. This is where patience pays off — cover the bowl and let it sit for at least 12 hours at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, pop it in the fridge. This step softens the lemons and coaxes the flavors out, so the pie filling becomes sweet, silky, and vibrant. I usually prep this the night before baking to save time.

Step 3: Prepare Your Pie Crust

Whether you decide on a single crust to show off the lemon slices or a double crust for a classic pie, get your dough ready now. I like using my favorite Stir-N-Roll Pie Crust recipe — it’s flaky and tender. Make sure to line a 9-inch regular depth pie plate. If you want to use a deep-dish pan, roll your dough a little larger so you don’t end up with a shallow pie. Keep the crust cool while you finish the filling prep to avoid shrinkage.

Step 4: Mix the Eggs With Cornstarch and Salt

In a separate bowl, whisk your cornstarch and salt into one of the eggs until smooth, then add the remaining eggs. This little step helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth custard texture. You’ll stir this mixture into the lemon and sugar bowl next — the eggs give the pie that perfect set and silky finish.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake Your Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie

Pour the egg and lemon mixture into your prepared pie shell. If you’re going for a double crust, add your top crust now and crimp the edges. Pop it into your preheated oven at 425°F for 15 minutes, then lower the heat to 375°F and bake another 25-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is lightly browned and the center feels set but still has a little wiggle. I’ve learned that an evenly golden crust is a reliable sign the pie is perfectly baked.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool on a wire rack — this lets the filling fully set and makes slicing cleaner. I like serving it slightly warm with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream. That creamy contrast against the bright lemon is just dreamy. If you want to enjoy it cooler, that works beautifully too. Either way, this pie doesn’t stick around long in my house!

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Pro Tips for Making Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe

  • Use a mandoline slicer: It saves so much time and ensures lemon slices are paper-thin and even — critical for that signature look and texture.
  • Don’t skip the soaking step: Letting lemons sit in sugar overnight develops depth of flavor and softens the slices perfectly.
  • Watch your bake times: Baking initially hot sets the pie quickly, then lowering temperature avoids overbaking and cracking.
  • Cool completely for best slicing: A fully cooled pie cuts cleaner and holds together without falling apart.

How to Serve Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe

A round lemon tart with a light brown crust sits on a glass plate on a white marbled surface, topped with thin, shiny yellow lemon slices arranged in a circular pattern. In front of it, on a white plate, is a single slice of the tart showing three layers: a firm crust, a thick smooth yellow filling, and lemon slices on top. Next to the slice is a silver fork, and two whole bright yellow lemons rest on the white marbled surface beside the plates. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I always reach for a lightly sweetened whipped cream — it balances the tartness beautifully. Sometimes, I add a few Meyer lemon zest curls or thin lemon peel strips on top for that extra pop of color and citrus aroma. A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh mint can add a lovely herbal note if you want to get fancy.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a green salad for a daytime gathering or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert spread. I’ve also served it alongside a cup of tea or a light Moscato — the citrus and sweetness always complement those beverages perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve layered lemon slices on top in a spiral pattern to wow guests visually. Another fun way is to cut the pie into mini tarts using a muffin tin, perfect for tea parties or buffets. Adding edible flowers or dusting with powdered sugar right before serving can make it feel extra celebratory.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, though I have to admit, it rarely lasts that long in my house! Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing

Freezing this pie is doable but I find the crust texture changes a bit. If you want to freeze, wrap the whole pie well with foil and plastic wrap, and thaw overnight in the fridge. It’s best eaten within a month.

Reheating

To refresh leftovers, I pop a slice in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes to warm and slightly crisp the crust. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and the filling rubbery.

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

    You can use regular lemons, but Meyer lemons have a sweeter, less acidic flavor that makes this pie extra special. If using regular lemons, consider reducing the sugar slightly to balance their tartness.

  2. Do I have to soak the lemon slices overnight?

    Soaking the lemon slices in sugar for at least 12 hours is key to softening the rinds and developing a smooth filling. Skipping this step will result in a tart, more bitter pie with tougher lemon slices.

  3. Why use cornstarch in the filling?

    Cornstarch acts as a thickener, helping the lemon mixture set into a custard-like texture without becoming runny. It also helps balance the juiciness from the lemons.

  4. Can I make this pie gluten-free?

    Absolutely! Using a gluten-free pie crust works great with this recipe and won’t affect the delicious lemon filling. Just be mindful of any gluten-free crusts that might be fragile when slicing.

  5. Should I serve this pie warm or cold?

    This pie is wonderful both ways. I often serve it slightly warm with whipped cream for a cozy treat, but it’s equally refreshing chilled. Choose what you and your guests prefer!

Final Thoughts

This Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe is truly one of my all-time favorites because it strikes that perfect balance between tart and sweet with a gorgeous, glossy finish that’s sure to impress. Once you get the hang of the soaking step and watch those lemon slices transform, you’ll be hooked just like I am. Next time you want a pie that’s fresh, bright, and a little bit different, give this recipe a try — I promise you’ll love how it turns out!

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Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 120 reviews
  • Author: Jaden
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 12 hours 75 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Meyer Lemon Shaker Pie is a vibrant, tangy dessert featuring thinly sliced Meyer lemons mixed with sugar and eggs in a flaky pie crust. This unique pie showcases the beautiful lemon slices on top and balances tartness and sweetness perfectly. A delightful treat that can be served warm or cool, ideally accompanied by sweetened whipped cream.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Pie Crust

  • 1 single or double crust pie dough (about 9-inch, regular or deep-dish pan)

Filling

  • 11/4 pounds Meyer lemons (about 6), thinly sliced
  • 13/4 cups granulated sugar (adjust between 1-1/2 to 2 cups based on tartness preference)
  • 1-2 teaspoons cornstarch (depending on juiciness preference)
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • Sweetened whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice Lemons: Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the Meyer lemons paper-thin, removing seeds as best as possible. You should have about 2 3/4 to 3 cups of sliced lemons plus their juice (approximately 450 grams or 1 pound).
  2. Combine Lemons and Sugar: Place the sliced lemons in a non-metallic bowl and stir in the sugar thoroughly. Cover and let the mixture stand at room temperature for at least 12 hours, or refrigerate if your kitchen is very warm, allowing the lemons to macerate and soften.
  3. Prepare Pie Crust: Prepare your pie dough (single or double crust) using your preferred recipe. Line a 9-inch pie plate, preferably glass, with the dough. A regular depth pan is ideal, but a deep-dish pan can work if your dough is rolled larger. Note that the filling might be a bit shallow in a deep-dish pan.
  4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get ready for baking.
  5. Mix Eggs and Cornstarch: In a separate bowl, whisk the cornstarch and salt into one of the eggs until no lumps remain. Then whisk in the remaining three eggs until well combined.
  6. Combine Filling: Stir the egg mixture into the lemon and sugar mixture until evenly combined. Pour this filling into the prepared pie shell. If using a double crust, add the top crust and crimp the edges securely.
  7. Bake at High Temperature: Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes to set the edges and start browning.
  8. Reduce Temperature and Continue Baking: Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 25 to 35 minutes until the top is slightly puffed, lightly browned, and the center feels set when gently touched. The single crust will show the filling clearly; for double crust, look for an evenly golden brown crust.
  9. Cool and Serve: Cool the pie on a wire rack. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with sweetened whipped cream for added richness.

Notes

  • You can use a single or double crust, but the single crust beautifully showcases the lemon slices.
  • Butter-Vodka crust by Marlene Sorosky is a great choice for a tender, flaky pie crust.
  • Gluten-free pie crust options are available, including recipes from Kate McDermott’s Art of the Pie website.
  • Adjust sugar amount depending on the tartness of your lemons: use less sugar for sweeter lemons and more for extra tartness.
  • Letting the lemon and sugar mixture rest overnight enhances flavor and texture by softening the lemon peel.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

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