Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat & Pan: Lightly grease a $9 \times 13$-inch baking dish.
Mix: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened, resembling wet sand.
Press: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to help create a dense, flat base.
Chill: Place the crust in the freezer for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling
Combine: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using).
Thicken: The mixture will thicken almost immediately as the acidity of the lemon juice reacts with the milk. Continue whisking until it is smooth and uniform.
Pour: Pour the lemon filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.
Step 3: Chill and Set
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