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Lemon Meringue Pie

Lemon Meringue Pie

Lemon Meringue Pie is a classic dessert featuring a crisp buttery crust filled with a smooth, tangy lemon curd and topped with light, fluffy, golden-brown meringue. This pie offers a perfect balance of bright citrus flavors and delicate sweetness with a delightful texture contrast that makes every bite memorable.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust

  • 1 pre-made or homemade buttery pie crust

Lemon Filling

  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 45 lemons)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Meringue Topping

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Blind bake your pie crust using pie weights or dried beans to keep it flat. Bake until golden and fully crisp to prevent sogginess once the filling is added.
  2. Make the Lemon Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Stir constantly until thickened to a silky, pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth.
  3. Whip the Meringue: Beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until soft peaks form. Fold in vanilla extract gently for flavor.
  4. Assemble the Pie: Pour the warm lemon filling into the cooled pie crust. Carefully spread the meringue on top, sealing it to the edges of the crust to prevent shrinking during baking.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Bake the assembled pie at a moderate temperature until the meringue turns a toasted golden brown. Let the pie cool completely at room temperature before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure a fully cooled and pre-baked crust to keep it crisp and prevent sogginess.
  • Use fresh lemons for the brightest and most vibrant citrus flavor.
  • Do not overbeat the meringue; stop whipping once stiff peaks form for the ideal texture.
  • Seal the meringue edges tightly to the crust to avoid shrinking and gaps.
  • Cool the pie slowly at room temperature to maintain a firm filling.

Nutrition

Keywords: Lemon Meringue Pie, lemon dessert, meringue pie, citrus pie, classic dessert, tangy sweet pie