There are few dessert recipes as classic and beloved as Lemon Meringue Pie. With its tangy, creamy filling and fluffy, golden-brown meringue topping, it’s no wonder that this pie has stood the test of time. But if you’ve never made Lemon Meringue Pie before, you might be intimidated by the process. Luckily, this easy and delicious recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring that your pie comes out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
For the pie crust:
- 1 pre-baked pie crust
For the lemon filling:
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the meringue topping:
- 3 egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 6 tablespoons white sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in water, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
- Stir in butter and egg yolks, and continue cooking until mixture thickens.
- Pour filling into pre-baked pie crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Spread meringue over filling, sealing to edge of crust.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until meringue is golden brown.
- Cool completely before serving.
Variations
Looking to put your own spin on this classic recipe? Here are a few ideas:
- Add a graham cracker crust: Swap out the traditional pie crust for a graham cracker crust for a slightly sweeter, crunchier base.
- Make it vegan: Use a vegan pie crust and replace the egg yolks with a vegan alternative, such as aquafaba.
- Add some blueberries: Mix fresh or frozen blueberries into the lemon filling for a colorful and flavorful twist.
- Try a different citrus: Swap out the lemon juice for lime juice or orange juice for a different flavor profile.
No matter how you choose to make it, Lemon Meringue Pie is a dessert that is sure to impress. Its bright, zesty flavor and fluffy, cloud-like topping make it the perfect dessert for any occasion. So why not give this easy and delicious recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ
What is Lemon Meringue Pie?
Lemon Meringue Pie is a dessert made with a shortcrust pastry base, tangy lemon filling, and fluffy meringue topping.
What ingredients do I need to make Lemon Meringue Pie?
You will need butter, sugar, cornstarch, salt, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, water, cream of tartar, and pie crust.
How long does it take to make Lemon Meringue Pie?
It takes about 45 minutes to prepare the pie crust and filling, and another 15 minutes to bake the meringue on top.
Can I make the pie crust in advance?
Yes, you can make the pie crust up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How do I prevent the meringue from weeping?
Make sure the meringue is spread all the way to the edges of the pie crust to create a seal. Also, bake the meringue until it is golden brown and firm to the touch.
How do I store leftover Lemon Meringue Pie?
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh, but the flavor of the pie may not be as bright and tangy.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you prefer. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package.
Can I freeze Lemon Meringue Pie?
It is not recommended to freeze Lemon Meringue Pie, as the meringue may become watery when thawed.
Can I make mini Lemon Meringue Pies instead of one large pie?
Yes, you can use a muffin tin to make mini Lemon Meringue Pies. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
