Description

Lemon Meringue Pie is a timeless dessert that combines a tangy lemon filling with a sweet, fluffy meringue topping. This recipe is straightforward and yields a pie that’s both beautiful and delicious, perfect for any occasion

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 lemons, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 egg yolks, beaten
• 1 (9 inch) pie crust, baked
• 4 egg whites
• 6 tablespoons white sugar

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the lemon filling by combining cornstarch, salt, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened and boiling, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

2. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then add butter until melted.

3. Whisk hot lemon mixture into egg yolks gradually to temper. Pour back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.

4. Cook the filling over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until thick and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

5. Pour the lemon filling into a pre-baked pie crust and set aside.

6. Beat egg whites in a clean bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, then beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.

7. Spread meringue over the lemon filling, sealing the edges and creating decorative peaks.

8. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the pie for 10-15 minutes until meringue is lightly browned.

9. Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before slicing and serving.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips:
Prevent a Weeping Meringue: Ensure that the meringue fully covers the lemon filling and touches the pie crust. This helps to seal the filling and prevent the meringue from "weeping" or separating.

Chill Before Serving: For best results, chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.

Zest First, Juice Later: Always zest your lemons before juicing them to make the process easier and to retain the maximum amount of zest.

Conclusion:
This Classic Lemon Meringue Pie is a delightful combination of tart lemon filling and sweet, airy meringue. The contrast of textures and flavors makes it a favorite for many, and it’s a perfect dessert for any time of year. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it with a cup of tea, this pie is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite of this timeless treat!