Why Make This Recipe
Lemon Meringue Pie is a classic dessert that brightens any meal with its zesty lemon flavor and fluffy meringue topping. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a treat on a sunny day. This pie combines sweet and tart flavors, making it a favorite among many. Plus, it’s visually impressive, making it a showstopper at gatherings.
How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make and bake the pie crust according to the package or recipe instructions.
- In a saucepan, mix sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add water and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually stir in a small amount of the hot mixture into the yolks to temper them. Then return to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and butter until melted. Pour the filling into the baked pie crust.
- For the meringue, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure it touches the edges of the crust.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is lightly browned.
- Let cool before serving.
How to Serve Lemon Meringue Pie
Serve Lemon Meringue Pie chilled or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or can be paired with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. A slice of this pie can brighten anyone’s day!
How to Store Lemon Meringue Pie
Store leftover Lemon Meringue Pie in the refrigerator. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. It is best enjoyed within 1-2 days for the best texture and flavor.
Tips to Make Lemon Meringue Pie
- Make sure to fully bake your pie crust before adding the filling to avoid a soggy bottom.
- When making the meringue, be sure that no egg yolks get into the whites for the best volume.
- For an extra lemony flavor, you can add more lemon juice or even lemon zest to the filling.
Variation
For a twist on the classic, consider adding a layer of fresh fruit such as raspberries or blueberries on top of the lemon filling before adding the meringue. It adds color and a burst of flavor!
FAQs
1. Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Yes, you can make a homemade pie crust for a fresh and delicious base. Just roll it out and bake according to your recipe.
2. What should I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can happen when moisture gets trapped. Make sure to cool the pie completely before cutting into it to reduce the chance of weeping.
3. How can I prevent the meringue from shrinking?
Be sure to spread the meringue all the way to the edges of the crust. This helps seal the filling and reduces shrinkage as it bakes.
Lemon Meringue Pie
A classic dessert featuring a zesty lemon filling and fluffy meringue topping, perfect for special occasions.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make and bake the pie crust according to the package or recipe instructions.
- In a saucepan, mix sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add water and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually stir in a small amount of the hot mixture into the yolks to temper them. Then return to the saucepan and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and butter until melted. Pour the filling into the baked pie crust.
- For the meringue, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure it touches the edges of the crust.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is lightly browned.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
Chill or serve at room temperature. Best enjoyed within 1-2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg


