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HOMEMADE LEMON MERINGUE PIE

Few desserts are as timeless and delightful as a homemade Lemon Meringue Pie. With its buttery, flaky crust, tangy lemon filling, and cloud-like meringue topping, this pie brings a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Lemon Meringue Pie is an ideal dessert for spring and summer gatherings, a lovely addition to any brunch, or simply a treat to enjoy when you crave a refreshing, citrusy dessert. This recipe is straightforward, combining simple ingredients with classic techniques, so both novice and experienced bakers can achieve a delicious result. Ready to bring a little sunshine to your table?

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Lemon Filling:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 3 large egg yolks (save the whites for the meringue)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 3-4 lemons)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest

For the Meringue Topping:

  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter, and use a pastry cutter (or your fingers) to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add Water and Form Dough: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough holds together. If needed, add a bit more water.
  3. Chill Dough: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Roll Out and Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully place it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess dough around the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent puffing, and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and all-purpose flour.
  2. Add Water and Heat: Gradually whisk in the water, and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
  3. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Add a few spoonfuls of the hot mixture into the egg yolks, stirring constantly to prevent scrambling, then return the yolk mixture to the saucepan.
  4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thick and smooth. Remove from heat and pour the filling into the baked pie crust.

Step 3: Make the Meringue Topping

  1. Beat the Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
  2. Add Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract.
  3. Spread Meringue Over Filling: Spoon the meringue over the lemon filling, spreading it to the edges to seal in the filling. This helps prevent the meringue from shrinking during baking.
  4. Bake the Pie: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden. Keep a close eye on it to avoid over-browning.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

  • Allow the pie to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before slicing. This chilling time helps the filling set and enhances the flavor. When ready to serve, slice and enjoy the bright, zesty flavors paired with the fluffy meringue topping.

Presentation

To serve, slice the Lemon Meringue Pie into eight even wedges. Serve each slice on a dessert plate, optionally garnishing with a few lemon zest curls for added appeal. A sprig of mint beside each slice can add a touch of elegance to the presentation.

This Classic Lemon Meringue Pie recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The crisp, buttery crust, combined with a tangy lemon filling and a fluffy meringue topping, makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this pie is achievable for bakers of all levels. Whether it’s for a summer picnic, family dinner, or festive occasion, this Lemon Meringue Pie promises to be the highlight of the meal. Enjoy the compliments that follow and the satisfaction of serving a homemade classic dessert!

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