🍋 Homemade Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe: A Classic Citrus Delight
Homemade Lemon Meringue Pie is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring a rich lemon filling, flaky pie crust, and fluffy golden meringue. This timeless dessert is a showstopper for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and careful preparation, you’ll have a stunning pie ready to impress your family and friends!
⏳ Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
🛒 Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups water
- 3 egg yolks (beaten)
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Meringue Topping:
- 3 egg whites
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Reduce heat and slowly whisk in the beaten egg yolks, stirring constantly. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter, mixing until smooth. Remove from heat and pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
For more delightful desserts, check out No-Bake Lemon Éclair Cake.
Step 2: Make the Meringue
In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Spread the meringue over the warm lemon filling, ensuring it touches the crust edges to prevent shrinking. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden brown.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing. Enjoy chilled!
🔥 Tips for the Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Let the filling stay warm when adding meringue to help seal the layers.
- Whip the meringue properly to avoid weeping or separation.
- Bake until golden brown for a beautiful finish.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
- Add a side of fresh berries for extra freshness.
❄️ Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze: Meringue can become watery when thawed.
- Reheat: Enjoy cold, or lightly warm slices in the oven for a few minutes.
For another delicious pie, try Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake.
💡 Conclusion
Homemade Lemon Meringue Pie is a delightful combination of bright citrus and airy sweetness. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday, gathering, or weekend treat, this pie is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic homemade dessert! 😊
Homemade Lemon Meringue Pie
Ingredients
- For the Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 ½ cups water
- 3 egg yolks beaten
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- For the Meringue Topping:
- 3 egg whites
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. Reduce heat and slowly whisk in the beaten egg yolks, stirring constantly. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter, mixing until smooth. Remove from heat and pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the warm lemon filling, ensuring it touches the crust edges to prevent shrinking. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing. Enjoy chilled!
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Let the filling stay warm when adding meringue to help seal the layers.
- Whip the meringue properly to avoid weeping or separation.
- Bake until golden brown for a beautiful finish.
