Lemon Curd Pie

Step 1

To prepare crust: Preheat oven to 350°F. Beat 1/2 cup butter, granulated sugar and vanilla in a medium bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add 1 egg yolk and beat on low speed just until combined, about 10 seconds. Add flour and salt and beat on medium-low speed until the mixture resembles fine sand, about 2 minutes. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Freeze, uncovered, until firm, about 20 minutes.

Step 2

Using a fork, prick holes all over the pie crust to prevent air bubbles. Bake until golden, 20 to 22 minutes. Let cool completely on a wire rack, about 45 minutes.

Step 3

Meanwhile, prepare lemon curd filling: Whisk eggs, egg yolks, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice and butter together in a large saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula, until the mixture is thickened and an instant-read thermometer registers 160°F, about 8 minutes. (The mixture should coat the back of a wooden spoon.)

Step 4

Pour the lemon mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into the crust; spread in even layer. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the warm curd to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until firm, at least 4 hours or up to 12 hours. Remove and discard plastic wrap. Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.