Bright, zesty, and refreshingly simple, Arizona Sunshine Pie is the perfect dessert to bring a little sunshine to your table. This unique lemon pie uses the whole lemon — yes, peel and all — to create a tart, creamy filling that’s bursting with citrus flavor. It’s a one-of-a-kind treat that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
Perfect for spring and summer gatherings or just a weeknight treat, this pie is sunshine in a slice. If you’ve enjoyed our Lemon Icebox Cake or Key Lime Pie, Arizona Sunshine Pie is a must-try for any citrus lover. The creamy texture and sweet-tart balance make it an instant favorite!
What is Arizona Sunshine Pie?
Arizona Sunshine Pie is a lemon pie made with an entire lemon (peel included!) blended into a smooth, custard-like filling, then baked in a pie crust and chilled. It’s like a cross between a lemon bar and a classic custard pie — tangy, sweet, and irresistibly bright. As the saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach — and this sunshine pie might just win everyone over in one bite!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Pie
Whole Lemon Flavor: Using the whole lemon brings intense, real citrus flavor with a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Simple Ingredients: All you need are pantry staples and one lemon.
Great Make-Ahead Dessert: Chill it in advance and serve it cold — it gets better with time!
If you love our Lemon Cream Pie or Cream Cheese Lemon Bars, Arizona Sunshine Pie gives you that same citrusy zing with an even easier method.
How to Make Arizona Sunshine Pie
Quick Overview
With just a handful of ingredients and a blender, this pie comes together in minutes before baking to golden, custardy perfection. Then just chill and enjoy!
Ingredients:
For the Pie:
- 1 large lemon, washed and seeds removed (keep the peel on!)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (frozen deep dish or homemade)
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare Pie Crust: If using frozen, remove from freezer and set on a cookie sheet for support. If using a homemade or glass pie plate, place directly on oven rack.
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F.
- Blend the Filling: Cut lemon into chunks (remove seeds, but leave peel on). Place lemon, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and sugar in a high-powered blender. Blend until completely smooth.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust. Bake for about 40 minutes or until set. The center should not jiggle when done.
- Cool and Chill: Let the pie cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Whip the Cream (Optional): Chill a mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 20 minutes. Then add cream and sugar, and beat until soft peaks form.
- Serve: Slice chilled pie and serve with a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy cold, warm, or at room temperature — but chilled is best!
What to Serve with Arizona Sunshine Pie
- Fresh berries or berry compote
- Mint leaves for garnish
- A cup of herbal or green tea
- A crisp white wine or lemony cocktail for a dinner party dessert
Top Tips for a Perfect Lemon Pie
- Use a High-Powered Blender: To ensure the lemon peel blends smoothly.
- Chill Thoroughly: The texture improves after cooling — it’s firmer and easier to slice.
- Try Meyer Lemons: For a slightly sweeter, floral twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the custard texture may break.
- Reheating: Best enjoyed cold or at room temp, but can be gently warmed if preferred.
FAQs
Can I use a regular lemon with thick skin?
Yes, just be sure to remove all seeds and blend very well to avoid bitterness.
What kind of pie crust works best?
A frozen deep dish or homemade pie crust works beautifully. Avoid graham cracker for this one.
Is the peel too bitter?
No — when blended with sugar and eggs, the bitterness mellows out into a lovely citrus tang.
Can I skip the whipped cream?
Absolutely! The pie is delicious on its own or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Arizona Sunshine Pie is a citrus-packed, blender-friendly dessert that’s as easy as it is impressive. With its sweet-tart flavor, silky texture, and vibrant color, it’s the perfect way to brighten any day. Try it once, and it’ll become a sunny staple in your dessert rotation!
Ingredients
- For the Pie:
- 1 large lemon, washed and seeds removed (keep the peel on!)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (frozen deep dish or homemade)
- For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If using frozen crust, place on a baking sheet. If homemade, place directly on oven rack.
- Cut lemon into chunks, removing seeds but keeping peel. Place in blender with eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and sugar.
- Blend until completely smooth.
- Pour filling into pie crust and bake for about 40 minutes or until center is set.
- Let cool at room temp, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Optional: Whip cream and sugar together until soft peaks form. Serve dolloped on chilled pie slices.
Notes
Use a Meyer lemon for a slightly sweeter flavor. The pie is best served chilled and slices cleanly when fully cooled. Avoid using graham cracker crust for best results.