Lemon Meringue Pie: A Zesty Delight for Special Occasions
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Category: Pie
Keywords: Dessert, Lemon, Citrus, Fruit, Less than 60 Minutes
This Lemon Meringue Pie is an irresistible blend of tangy lemon filling and fluffy meringue, and it holds a special place in my heart as my husband’s favorite dessert. Each year, he requests this delightful pie in lieu of a traditional birthday cake, showcasing its sweet, zesty charm and our love for this classic dessert.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Egg yolks | 4 |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Sugar | 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (divided) |
| Fresh lemon juice | 3/4 cup |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Cream of tartar | 1/4 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3376.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 184.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 84.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 1539.8 mg |
| Sodium | 2161.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 389.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.3 g |
| Sugars | 281.7 g |
| Protein | 53.1 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step ensures that your pie will bake evenly and reach the perfect golden color.
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Prepare the Lemon Filling: In a double boiler, combine the egg yolks, whole eggs, 1 cup of sugar, fresh lemon juice, and cornstarch. Whisk these ingredients together until fully incorporated. Place the mixture over simmering water and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. The mixture will gradually thicken to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon—be cautious not to let it boil, as this could ruin the texture.
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Add the Butter: Once thickened, remove the lemon filling from the heat and stir in the butter until it is completely melted and blended. Pour this luscious lemon mixture into your prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
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Make the Meringue: For the meringue topping, take a clean mixing bowl and beat the egg whites along with the cream of tartar at the highest speed of your mixer. Gradually add in the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. This process is crucial for achieving that fluffy, cloud-like texture on top of your pie.
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Top the Pie with Meringue: Gently spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure to seal it at the edges to prevent shrinkage during baking. Use a spatula to create peaks and swirls in the meringue for a beautiful presentation.
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Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period helps the filling set properly. After cooling, refrigerate the pie for a couple of hours before slicing. Serve chilled for the best flavor experience.
Enjoy this delightful Lemon Meringue Pie, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a sweet moment with family and friends. Whether you’re sharing it on a birthday or just savoring it during a cozy afternoon, this pie is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone at the table.
