If you’re craving a bright, zesty dessert that’s entirely plant-based, this vegan lemon pie recipe is the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth without any dairy or eggs. This pie balances the tangy freshness of lemons with a creamy, smooth filling nestled inside a crisp, buttery crust made with wholesome vegan ingredients.
Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to try something new, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Not only is this pie bursting with fresh citrus flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. From preparing the crust to whipping up the luscious lemon filling, every step is straightforward and fun.
Plus, it’s a great dessert to bring to gatherings or simply enjoy as a refreshing treat at home. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can experience the perfect slice of sunshine any time you want!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan lemon pie stands out because it’s both delicious and accessible. The filling has the perfect balance of tart and sweet, made creamy with natural ingredients like cashews or coconut milk instead of traditional dairy.
The crust is flaky and golden, thanks to plant-based butter substitutes or coconut oil, creating a delightful texture contrast.
It’s a healthier alternative to conventional lemon pies, free from cholesterol and animal fats, yet rich in flavor. This recipe is also versatile—you can adjust the sweetness or tartness to suit your taste, and it’s free from common allergens like eggs and dairy.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious to try something new, you’ll be amazed at how satisfying and vibrant this pie is.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, chilled and cubed
- 2-3 tablespoons ice cold water
- For the lemon filling:
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours or boiled for 15 minutes
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3/4 cup coconut cream (the thick part from chilled full-fat coconut milk)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color, optional)
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Food processor or high-speed blender
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or microplane
- Spatula
- Baking sheet or pie weights (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the chilled vegan butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice cold water: Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of ice water and gently mix until the dough starts to come together. Add the additional tablespoon if needed, but avoid overworking the dough.
- Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Roll out the crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to your 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into place and trimming any excess edges.
- Blind bake the crust: To prevent a soggy bottom, prick the crust all over with a fork. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, then remove weights and parchment and bake for another 8-10 minutes until golden. Let cool.
- Make the filling: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a food processor or blender along with the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, coconut cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and turmeric if using. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy.
- Fill the crust: Pour the lemon filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Chill the pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh lemon slices, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy your refreshing vegan lemon pie!
Tips & Variations
For the creamiest filling, make sure to soak your cashews thoroughly or boil them if short on time.
You can substitute the cashew base for silken tofu or avocado if you prefer a slightly different texture. For a nut-free version, try using soaked sunflower seeds instead.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to your taste.
If you want to add a bit of crunch, sprinkle crushed vegan graham crackers or toasted coconut flakes on top before serving. For a fun twist, mix in some fresh berries or swap lemon for lime to create a tangy lime pie.
Looking for other delicious vegan desserts? Check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or indulge in creamy textures with our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Slice (1/8 pie) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Fat | 15 g |
Saturated Fat | 8 g |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugars | 18 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Vitamin C | 30% DV* |
*DV = Daily Value
Serving Suggestions
This vegan lemon pie is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it with some elegant accompaniments. A dollop of coconut whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the tangy filling.
For an extra burst of freshness, serve with a side of mixed berries or a sprig of fresh mint. This pie also works wonderfully as a summer dessert, perfect after a light meal or as part of a festive occasion.
If you enjoy exploring vegan baking, you might also appreciate our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to complement your dessert with homemade bread.
Conclusion
This vegan lemon pie is a testament to how plant-based ingredients can create desserts that are both indulgent and wholesome. The fresh lemon flavor brightens up the creamy filling, while the crisp crust adds just the right amount of texture.
It’s an excellent recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a classic dessert with a vegan twist.
With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and vibrant flavors, this pie is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or even just a sunny afternoon treat. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the recipe—add your favorite garnishes or try different citrus fruits.
For more vegan delights to try, explore our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas and keep your plant-based cooking exciting and varied!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Lemon Pie
Description: A refreshing and creamy vegan lemon pie with a crispy crust. Perfectly tangy and sweet, ideal for any occasion.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups vegan graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color, optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup; press into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Bake crust for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- Drain soaked cashews and blend with lemon juice, coconut cream, maple syrup, lemon zest, vanilla, turmeric, and salt until smooth.
- Pour filling into cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate pie for at least 4 hours before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 28g
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