Imagine this: the sharp, tangy taste of lemon curd colliding with the sweet, marshmallow-like fluffiness of meringue. Yes, we’re talking about the classic Lemon Meringue Pie. A dessert so delightful, it can bring back memories of your grandmother’s kitchen or that little bakery on your last vacation.
If you’ve been longing for that taste, craving that texture, we have good news for you! Today, we’re going to explore the art of making this luscious, zesty dessert right in your home kitchen.
Now, don’t be intimidated. Although Lemon Meringue Pie may seem like a complex dessert, it’s actually quite simple to make when you break it down into its three main components: the buttery crust, the tangy lemon filling, and the fluffy meringue topping.
The Crust: A Buttery Foundation
Our journey begins with the crust. A good crust is the foundation of any great pie, and this one is no exception.
Tip: Chilling the dough before rolling it out makes it easier to handle and helps prevent shrinking during baking.
The Filling: A Symphony of Sweet and Tangy
Next comes the star of the show: the lemon filling. This filling is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, giving the pie its iconic, mouthwatering flavor.
Tip: Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottled juice just doesn’t compare!
The Meringue: Fluffy Peaks of Sweetness
Finally, we come to the meringue. This cloud-like topping is the crown of the pie, providing a sweet contrast to the tangy lemon filling.
Tip: Whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This gives the meringue its signature texture and volume.
With these components in harmony, the result is a pie that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
So gather your ingredients and preheat your oven – it’s time to bring the magic of Lemon Meringue Pie into your own kitchen. And remember, the joy of cooking is all about the journey, so savor each step, and soon, you’ll be savoring a slice of your very own homemade Lemon Meringue Pie.
Lemon Meringue Pie
Course: DessertCuisine: American8
servings30
minutes20
minutes300
kcal90
minutesThis delightful, tangy-sweet Lemon Meringue Pie will transport you straight to a cozy bakery.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1 cup white sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup lemon juice
4 egg yolks, beaten
1 tablespoon butter
4 egg whites
Directions
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, salt, and butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into the bottom and sides of a pie dish.
- Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes, or until golden. Remove and let cool.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat until thick and bubbly. Remove from heat, stir in butter, and let cool.
- Spread the lemon mixture over the cooled crust.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Spread over the lemon layer, making sure to completely cover the lemon.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until meringue is golden brown. Cool on a wire rack, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Ensure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- For a more tart pie, increase the amount of lemon juice.
- The pie is best enjoyed on the day it is made, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.
This Lemon Meringue Pie is a delightful dessert that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s a wonderful follow-up to a rich, hearty meal, providing a fresh and tangy contrast. Try it after a Sunday roast, a creamy pasta, or a flavorful curry to cleanse the palate and round off the meal perfectly.
Alternatively, pair it with afternoon tea for a classy and comforting treat. Lemon Meringue Pie also shines as the centerpiece of a dessert table, beautifully accompanying chocolate cake, fruit tarts, or vanilla ice cream.