The PERFECT Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe

Introduction

Discover the joy of baking a classic Lemon Meringue Pie, a dessert that combines a flaky, buttery crust with a silky, zingy lemon filling and a cloud of marshmallowy meringue on top. It's a delightful treat that's like sunshine on a plate!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

For the Filling:

• Yellow onion
• Cilantro and parsley
• Thyme, fresh rosemary
• Lemon peel
• Salt
• Oregano
• Olive oil
• Sugar
• Lemon juice
• Egg yolks
• Butter

For the Meringue:

• Egg whites
• Sugar
• Cream of tartar (or white vinegar/lemon juice)
• Granulated sugar

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare and Bake the Crust:

   • Follow instructions for your chosen pie crust. For store-bought, follow the package instructions. For homemade, roll out, crimp, and freeze before baking.
   • Bake with pie weights and parchment paper to prevent the crust from shrinking.

2. Prepare Lemon Filling:

   • Combine sugar, cornstarch, water, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a pot. Cook over medium heat, whisking frequently until thickened.
   • In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks. Temper the yolks by gradually adding the hot lemon mixture while whisking. Then, combine back into the pot and cook again until thickened.
   • Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted and incorporated.

3. Make Meringue:

   • In a stand mixer, whisk egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
   • Gradually add sugar and continue to whisk until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy and marshmallowy.

4. Assemble and Bake:

   • Pour lemon filling into the baked pie crust.
   • Spread meringue over the filling, ensuring it touches the crust all around to seal.
   • Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.

5. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the pie to cool and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
   • Slice and serve, enjoying the crisp crust, zingy lemon filling, and fluffy meringue.

Conclusion

This Lemon Meringue Pie is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the tanginess of lemon with the sweetness of meringue, all brought together in a crisp, buttery crust. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet ending to a family meal, this pie is sure to impress and satisfy.