Lemon Meringue Pie
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This classic Lemon Meringue Pie features a zesty lemon filling nestled in a flaky crust, topped with a cloud of light and airy meringue. Perfectly balanced with sweetness and tartness, it's an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Experience the joy of homemade pie that dazzles the senses and delights your guests!
This classic Lemon Meringue Pie features a zesty lemon filling nestled in a flaky crust, topped with a cloud of light and airy meringue.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Lemon Meringue Pie is an exquisite dessert that beautifully balances the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of meringue. The bright and invigorating lemon filling is made with natural ingredients, ensuring every bite is refreshing. Whether you're serving it at a summer gathering or a festive celebration, this pie is guaranteed to please the palate.
The luscious lemon filling is encased in a buttery, flaky crust that adds an appealing texture. It is important to note that the combination of the crunchy crust and the silky filling creates a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall experience. Each slice of Lemon Meringue Pie offers a taste sensation that whisks you away to a sunny afternoon, making it a special treat any time of year.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This pie is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a show-stopping dessert. The fluffy meringue topping resembles a soft cloud, inviting your guests to dig in. Whether it's a holiday celebration, birthday party, or a casual dinner with friends, Lemon Meringue Pie is a fitting dessert to bring a touch of elegance to any meal.
Additionally, this recipe allows for various adaptations, making it versatile. You can personalize the lemon flavor by incorporating different citrus fruits or even experimenting with alternative sweeteners. Its adaptability means it can cater to various dietary preferences and occasions, ensuring that everyone at the table has a chance to savor this delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Lemon Meringue Pie.
For the crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the lemon filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 egg yolks, beaten
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the meringue
- 3 egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
Make sure to preheat your oven while you prepare the ingredients.
Instructions
Instructions
Make the crust
In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball.
Prepare the lemon filling
In a saucepan, mix sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water. Cook over medium heat until thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks, butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Make the meringue
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over lemon filling, sealing edges.
Bake the pie
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until meringue is golden brown. Allow to cool before serving.
Enjoy your delicious lemon meringue pie!
Tips for the Perfect Meringue
Achieving the perfect meringue can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips, you can master it easily. Ensure that your mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of any grease. This helps the egg whites whip to their fullest potential. It’s also important to use room temperature egg whites for increased volume, resulting in a fluffier topping.
Another helpful tip when creating your meringue is to add the sugar gradually. This allows the sugar to dissolve properly, helping you achieve stiff peaks. Continue beating until the mixture appears glossy and holds firm peaks on the whisk, ensuring a beautiful, stable meringue that holds up during baking.
Storing Your Lemon Meringue Pie
If you have leftovers, storing Lemon Meringue Pie requires a bit of care to keep the crust from becoming soggy. It's best to store the pie in the refrigerator, where it can maintain its freshness for up to three days. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil to prevent any odors from other foods from affecting its flavor.
When you're ready to serve, let the pie sit at room temperature for a bit before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve, ensuring that you and your guests can enjoy every delectable bite without fuss or mess.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you're short on time.
→ How do I store leftover pie?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Lemon Meringue Pie
This classic Lemon Meringue Pie features a zesty lemon filling nestled in a flaky crust, topped with a cloud of light and airy meringue. Perfectly balanced with sweetness and tartness, it's an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Experience the joy of homemade pie that dazzles the senses and delights your guests!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the lemon filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 egg yolks, beaten
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the meringue
- 3 egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball. Roll out dough to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Place crust in pie plate and pierce with a fork.
In a saucepan, mix sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water. Cook over medium heat until thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks, butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour filling into the baked crust.
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over lemon filling, sealing edges.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until meringue is golden brown. Allow to cool before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 3g