Lemon Meringue Pie 

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Why Lemon Meringue Pie Is So Loved

This pie has remained popular for generations because it offers contrast in the best way possible:

  • Crisp, buttery crust
  • Smooth and tangy lemon filling
  • Light, airy, slightly sweet meringue
  • Visually stunning presentation

It’s not overly heavy, making it perfect after a rich meal, and the bright lemon flavor wakes up the palate instantly.

🥧 Ingredients You Will Need

For the Pie Crust

  • 1¼ cups (160 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 3–4 tablespoons cold water

(You may also use a store-bought crust if preferred.)

For the Lemon Filling

  • 1½ cups (300 g) sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1½ cups water
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons butter

For the Meringue

  • 4 large egg whites
  • ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
  • ½ cup (100 g) sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

🧈 Making the Perfect Pie Crust

A good Lemon Meringue Pie starts with a solid foundation.

  1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
  2. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add cold water gradually until dough comes together.
  4. Shape into a disc, wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  5. Roll out and fit into a pie dish.
  6. Prick the bottom with a fork and blind bake at 190°C / 375°F for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden.

Let the crust cool completely before filling.

🍋 The Secret to a Smooth Lemon Filling

The lemon filling should be silky, glossy, and full of fresh citrus flavor.

  1. In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Slowly add water while whisking.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  4. In a separate bowl, lightly beat egg yolks.
  5. Gradually whisk hot mixture into yolks (to temper them).
  6. Return everything to the pan.
  7. Cook for 2 more minutes.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, zest, and butter.

The filling should be thick but pourable.

🥄 Pouring and Sealing the Filling

Pour the hot lemon filling directly into the baked crust. This step is important because it helps the meringue adhere properly and prevents separation later.

☁️ How to Make Fluffy, Stable Meringue

Meringue should be glossy, firm, and lightly sweet—not dry.

  1. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
  2. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time.
  3. Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
  4. Beat in vanilla extract.

The meringue should hold its shape without collapsing.

🎂 Spreading the Meringue Correctly

Spread the meringue over the hot lemon filling, making sure it touches the crust edges completely. This seals the filling and prevents weeping.

Use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls and peaks.

🔥 Baking the Pie

Bake the pie at 180°C / 350°F for 12–15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden on top.

Watch closely—meringue browns quickly.

⏳ Cooling and Setting Time

Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. This ensures clean slices and a properly set filling.

Avoid refrigerating immediately, as sudden temperature changes can cause the meringue to shrink or release moisture.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Lemon Meringue Pie is best served:

  • Slightly chilled or at room temperature
  • With fresh berries on the side
  • With a cup of tea or coffee

A sharp knife wiped clean between slices ensures perfect presentation.

🔁 Delicious Variations

Mini Lemon Meringue Pies

Bake in small tart shells for individual servings.

Lime Meringue Pie

Replace lemon juice with fresh lime juice for a tropical twist.

Graham Cracker Crust

Use crushed graham crackers mixed with butter for a sweeter base.

Swiss Meringue Version

Use gently heated egg whites and sugar for a silkier topping.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Adding meringue to cold filling
  • Under-cooking the lemon filling
  • Over-beating egg whites
  • Not sealing meringue to crust edges

Each step matters for the perfect final result.

🥗 Nutritional Overview (Approximate)

Per slice:

  • Calories: 320–380
  • Carbohydrates: High
  • Fat: Moderate
  • Protein: Moderate

This is a treat meant to be enjoyed mindfully.

💛 Why This Recipe Works So Well

This Lemon Meringue Pie succeeds because it respects balance. The filling is tangy but not sharp, the meringue sweet but not heavy, and the crust crisp but tender. Every component complements the others, creating a dessert that feels refined yet comforting.

It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a signature—requested again and again.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Lemon Meringue Pie is a celebration of contrast and simplicity. With a handful of basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a dessert that feels timeless, elegant, and deeply satisfying.

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