Lemon Meringue Pie
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Brighten your dessert table with this classic Lemon Meringue Pie recipe. Featuring a zesty lemon filling that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness, all topped with a fluffy, golden meringue, this pie is sure to impress at any gathering. The flaky crust adds the finishing touch to a delightful treat that is both refreshing and satisfying.
This Lemon Meringue Pie is a true classic. The combination of zesty lemon, sweet meringue, and flaky crust creates a wonderful balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
One of the hallmark traits of a great Lemon Meringue Pie is its exquisite balance of sweet and tart flavors. The lemon filling, made from fresh lemon juice and zest, brings a lively brightness that captivates the palate, while the sugar content keeps it dessert-friendly. This duality allows the pie to be refreshing without overwhelming your taste buds.
In every slice, you'll experience a burst of citrus that is perfectly complemented by the indulgent sweetness of the meringue. The airy texture of the meringue acts as a delightful contrast to the creamy lemon filling, creating layers of flavor that enhance the overall experience. This interplay makes Lemon Meringue Pie a timeless classic.
A Beautiful Presentation
Not only does this Lemon Meringue Pie taste divine, but it also offers a stunning visual appeal. The golden peaks of meringue that form during baking create a striking contrast against the bright yellow lemon filling. This not only makes the pie eye-catching but also instills a sense of anticipation for what lies beneath the fluffy exterior.
Serve your Lemon Meringue Pie in a beautiful pie dish, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through. When garnished with fresh lemon slices or mint leaves, the presentation becomes even more inviting, promising a delightful dessert experience that is perfect for any celebration.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a summer gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging on a cozy evening, Lemon Meringue Pie is an adaptable dessert. Its zesty flavor makes it a great choice for warm weather, while its classic status ensures it’s always welcome at holiday feasts. Everyone loves a slice of this delightful pie, making it a crowd-pleaser.
You can also adapt this recipe for various events by experimenting with garnishes or serving it with a side of whipped cream or fresh berries. The versatility of Lemon Meringue Pie means it can be the star of the dessert table, no matter the occasion.
Ingredients
For the pie crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the lemon filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 large egg yolks, beaten
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the meringue
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you begin.
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Make the Lemon Filling
In a saucepan, combine sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mix in water and stir over medium heat until it thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat. Stir a small amount into the egg yolks, then return it to the saucepan.
Prepare the Meringue
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over the lemon filling, sealing the edges.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the meringue is golden. Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Let the pie cool completely before slicing for the best presentation.
Storage Tips
To ensure the best texture and flavor, it's ideal to enjoy your Lemon Meringue Pie the same day it’s made. If you need to store leftovers, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap to protect the meringue from becoming soggy. Place it in the refrigerator where it can stay fresh for up to two days.
Avoid freezing this dessert as the meringue can lose its wonderful fluffy texture when thawed. If you do choose to freeze it, consider separating the crust and filling, freezing each component individually, and assembling once thawed.
Variations to Try
If you’re looking for a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding a hint of fresh herbs like thyme or basil to the lemon filling for an unexpected flavor boost. These herbs can add depth, transforming the pie into a gourmet dessert that will surprise your guests.
For a more indulgent version, try incorporating a layer of whipped cream on top of the meringue. This extra layer not only adds texture but also a richness that can enhance the overall experience of the pie. Don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and meringue in advance. Just assemble and bake before serving.
→ What can I do with leftover egg whites?
You can use leftover egg whites in recipes like meringues, macaroons, or even an omelette.
Lemon Meringue Pie
Brighten your dessert table with this classic Lemon Meringue Pie recipe. Featuring a zesty lemon filling that perfectly balances sweetness and tartness, all topped with a fluffy, golden meringue, this pie is sure to impress at any gathering. The flaky crust adds the finishing touch to a delightful treat that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the pie crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the lemon filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 large egg yolks, beaten
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the meringue
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, combine 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 on a floured surface, then fit into a 9-inch pie pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 15 minutes or until golden.
In a saucepan, combine sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mix in water and stir over medium heat until it thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat. Stir a small amount into the egg yolks, then return it to the saucepan. Mix in lemon juice, butter, and zest. Pour into the baked pie crust.
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Spread meringue over the lemon filling, sealing the edges.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the meringue is golden. Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 36g
- Protein: 5g