Description
A classic dessert featuring a tangy lemon filling topped with a fluffy meringue, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 piece pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups water
- 3 large egg yolks (beaten)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large lemons (zest and juice)
- 3 large egg whites
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions
- If using a pre-made crust, follow package instructions for baking. If making a crust from scratch, roll it out, fit it into a pie pan, and pre-bake until lightly golden. Allow to cool.
- In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the water and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir consistently until the mixture thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir a small amount of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks to temper them, then gradually stir the yolk mixture back into the saucepan. Return to heat and cook for another minute.
- Add the butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the mixture. Stir until the butter melts and everything is combined. Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust.
- In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract. Beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
- Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure it touches the crust to prevent shrinking. Use a spatula to create peaks and swirls for an attractive finish.
- Place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool at room temperature before slicing. Serve chilled for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Ensure there are no yolks in the egg whites for the meringue to whip properly.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to prevent the filling from running.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Lemon Meringue Pie, Grandma's Recipe, Dessert, Classic Pie