Lemon Meringue

Lemon meringue is a timeless dessert that balances the tartness of lemon with the sweetness of meringue, creating a heavenly treat for any occasion. This pie is a staple at family gatherings, holidays, and special events, delighting taste buds with its refreshing flavor and light texture. Perfect for lemon lovers, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy, making every slice a moment to cherish.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-baked pie crust (9-inch)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water
• 3 large egg yolks, beaten
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 25-30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 slice): approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 36g carbohydrates, 2g protein. This information is based on a standard serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Gradually stir in water and cook over medium heat until thickened.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
5. Slowly add some of the hot mixture to the egg yolks, stirring constantly.
6. Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook for 2 more minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter.
8. Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
9. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
10. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
11. Spread meringue over the lemon filling, sealing the edges.
12. Bake for 10-15 minutes until meringue is golden brown.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice for convenience, though fresh is recommended for the best flavor. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust.

Serving and Pairings

Lemon meringue pie pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It can also be enjoyed with fresh berries for added flavor and color.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover lemon meringue pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served fresh, but you can reheat it briefly in the oven at a low temperature to refresh the meringue.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not pre-baking the crust can lead to a soggy bottom.
• Overbeating the egg whites can cause the meringue to weep.
• Adding the sugar too quickly can prevent proper peaks from forming.
• Using cold ingredients can affect the meringue’s stability.
• Skipping the cream of tartar can result in a less stable meringue.

Helpful Tips

• Use room temperature eggs for better volume in meringue.
• Make sure no yolk gets into the egg whites for optimal whipping.
• Cool the pie completely before slicing to maintain shape.
• Use a torch for a perfectly toasted meringue finish.

FAQs

Can I make lemon meringue pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and meringue separately and assemble them just before serving. This keeps the meringue from getting soggy.

Why did my meringue weep?

Meringue weeping can occur due to overcooking or not sealing the edges properly. Ensure the meringue covers the filling completely and is baked just until golden.

Can I freeze lemon meringue pie?

It is not recommended to freeze lemon meringue pie, as the texture of the meringue may suffer. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have cornstarch?

You can use all-purpose flour as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the texture of the filling.

How do I prevent my meringue from shrinking?

Ensure that your pie filling is hot when adding the meringue. This helps to stabilize it and prevents shrinking as it cools.

Conclusion

Lemon meringue pie is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor topped with fluffy meringue. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a treat that combines textures and flavors beautifully. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or as a special treat, this recipe is sure to impress and leave everyone wanting more.

Lemon Meringue

A delightful dessert combining tart lemon filling with a fluffy meringue topping, perfect for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: lemon meringue, dessert, pie, citrus

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

• 1 pre-baked pie crust 9-inch
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water
• 3 large egg yolks beaten
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar for meringue

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
• Gradually stir in water and cook over medium heat until thickened.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
• Slowly add some of the hot mixture to the egg yolks, stirring constantly.
• Return the egg mixture to the saucepan and cook for 2 more minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter.
• Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
• In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
• Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
• Spread meringue over the lemon filling, sealing the edges.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes until meringue is golden brown.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 1g