Introduction
Imagine the delight on your family’s faces as you present a beautiful Lemon Meringue Pie at your next festive gathering. Bursting with tangy lemon curd, a crisp, buttery crust, and a cloud of perfectly browned meringue, this pie is a celebration of flavors and textures. It’s an ideal dessert for occasions like Thanksgiving, bringing a bright, citrusy freshness to the table while creating lasting memories with loved ones. Let’s dive into this classic yet extraordinary recipe that epitomizes family bonding and culinary creativity.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 4 large egg yolks, beaten
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/4 cups sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in water until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until boiling. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Gradually whisk about 1/2 cup of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks, then return this egg mixture to the saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest until the butter is melted and everything is well combined.
- Pour the lemon filling into your pre-baked pie crust and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, beating on high until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
- Spread the meringue over the hot lemon filling, sealing the edges to prevent shrinking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Cool the pie at room temperature for at least 1 hour before serving. Refrigerate any leftovers.
Helpful Tips
- For a firm and fluffy meringue, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of any grease.
- To avoid the meringue shrinking, make sure it touches the edges of the pie crust.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a cake dome to protect the meringue.
Ingredient Substitutions
- If you’re out of fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice, though fresh juice is always best for optimal flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, replace butter with a plant-based margarine.
Pairings
This Lemon Meringue Pie pairs wonderfully with a light, refreshing beverage. Try serving it with iced tea, sparkling water infused with citrus slices, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Complement your dessert with a fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
We hope this Lemon Meringue Pie brings warmth and joy to your table. We’d love to see your culinary creations! Share your pie photos using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website at Zynahz. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes, and follow us on social media for more cooking inspiration. Happy baking!
