🍋 Classic Lemon Meringue Pie
A timeless dessert featuring a buttery crust, bright lemon filling, and a fluffy toasted meringue topping. Sweet, tart, and beautifully balanced, it’s one of the most beloved pies for holidays and family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the Lemon Filling
1 cup (200 g) sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
1½ cups water
2 lemons, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons butter
4 egg yolks, beaten
For the Meringue
4 egg whites
6 tablespoons sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, helps stabilize)
Instructions
- Bake the Pie Crust
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place crust in a pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork.
Bake 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
Remove and let cool slightly. - Make the Lemon Filling
In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually stir in water, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to boil.
Stir in butter.
Slowly whisk about ½ cup of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks (to temper them).
Pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly until thick and smooth.
Pour the hot filling into the baked pie crust. - Prepare the Meringue
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Gradually add the sugar, beating until stiff glossy peaks form.
Mix in the vanilla extract. - Assemble the Pie
Spread the meringue over the hot lemon filling, making sure it touches the crust edges to seal it.
Use a spoon to create decorative peaks. - Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
Cooling
Let the pie cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing so the filling sets properly.
Tips for Success
Spread meringue onto hot filling to prevent shrinking.
Make sure the bowl for egg whites is clean and grease-free for best volume.
Fresh lemon juice gives the brightest flavor.
Description
This classic pie combines tangy lemon custard with a light, marshmallow-like meringue topping and a crisp crust. Each bite is a perfect mix of sweet, tart, creamy, and airy textures.
Approximate Nutrition (per slice)
Calories: ~320
Carbohydrates: ~45 g
Fat: ~12 g
Protein: ~5 g