Lemon Meringue Pie

 Irresistible Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe: A Tangy, Sweet Delight

Few desserts capture the perfect balance of tart and sweet like a Lemon Meringue Pie. With its crisp, buttery crust, silky lemon filling, and fluffy, golden meringue topping, this classic dessert never fails to impress. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply treating yourself, this pie promises to be the star of your table.

Follow this step-by-step guide to create a perfect Lemon Meringue Pie that’s bursting with bright citrus flavor and crowned with cloud-like meringue.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Pie Crust

1 standard-sized baked pie crust – Provides a buttery, crisp base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling and airy meringue.

For the Lemon Filling

1½ cups of water – Ensures the filling stays smooth and luscious.

1 cup of white sugar – Balances the tartness of the lemon, creating that signature sweet-tart flavor.

4 large egg yolks – Contribute richness and help thicken the filling.

⅓ cup of cornstarch – Essential for thickening the filling to achieve a perfect sliceable texture.

½ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice – Delivers bright, zesty flavor for a refreshing citrus kick.

2 tablespoons of unsalted butter – Adds a rich, silky finish to the filling.

1 tablespoon of lemon zest – Intensifies the lemon flavor for an extra burst of freshness.

For the Meringue Topping

4 large egg whites – Whipped to create a light, fluffy, cloud-like topping.

½ teaspoon of cream of tartar – Stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring they hold their shape.

½ cup of white sugar – Sweetens the meringue and helps it achieve a glossy finish.

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness.

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Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour about ½ cup of the hot mixture into the yolks while whisking continuously (this tempers the yolks, preventing them from scrambling).

3. Return the yolk mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

4. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter. Whisk until smooth.

5. Pour the lemon filling into the baked pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 2: Whip the Meringue Topping

1. In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form.

2. Gradually add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed until glossy, stiff peaks form.

3. Beat in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Spread the meringue over the warm lemon filling, ensuring it touches the pie crust's edges to create a seal (this prevents shrinking).

2. Use a spoon to create decorative peaks for a classic meringue look.

3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.

4. Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool at room temperature for 1 hour before refrigerating for at least 4 hours to set.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie

✅ Temper the eggs properly to avoid scrambling.

✅ Seal the meringue completely to the crust edge to prevent weeping.

✅ Bake the meringue immediately while the filling is still warm for better adhesion.

✅ Let the pie cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.

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Serving Suggestions

This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a sweet contrast to the tangy lemon. Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing dessert.

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Why This Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe Stands Out

This recipe offers the perfect balance of zesty lemon, silky texture, and pillowy meringue, ensuring every bite is unforgettable. With clear instructions and expert tips, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results.

Prepare this delightful Lemon Me

ringue Pie for your next special occasion — or just because! It's so good, you won't need an excuse to make it again.