Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe
A classic lemon meringue pie is one of those desserts that never goes out of style. It is a perfect balance of flavours, with a buttery crust, a smooth and tangy lemon filling, and a light fluffy meringue topping that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Each layer complements the other, creating a dessert that is elegant, refreshing, and satisfying all at once.
This pie is ideal for special occasions, holidays, or even as a weekend treat when you want to make something impressive yet comforting. Its bright citrus flavor and cloud like meringue make it as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. Once you master this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your dessert collection and a dish your family and friends will request again and again.
Why You Need This Recipe
You need this recipe because it gives you a foolproof way to make a bakery style lemon meringue pie right at home. Many versions of this pie can be too sweet or too tart, but this recipe strikes the perfect balance so you get that refreshing lemon zing without overpowering the creamy texture. It also walks you through each step in detail, from the crust to the filling to the meringue, so even beginners can feel confident. By using fresh lemons, you get a vibrant flavor that stands out compared to store bought mixes. This recipe also ensures your meringue holds its shape and does not weep, giving your pie a professional finish every time.
Ingredients
These carefully chosen ingredients create the best flavor and texture for your pie. Here is a simple table with the key ingredients and their approximate calorie counts
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Pie crust (pre baked) | 1 (9 inch) | 800 |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/2 cup | 25 |
| Lemon zest | 1 tbsp | 5 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 1/4 cups | 960 |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 cup | 120 |
| Egg yolks | 4 large | 220 |
| Butter | 3 tbsp | 300 |
| Water | 1 1/2 cups | 0 |
| Egg whites | 4 large | 70 |
| Sugar for meringue | 1/2 cup | 385 |
How to Prepare
Begin by preparing your pie crust. You can use a store bought crust or make one from scratch, but be sure to bake it fully before adding the filling so it holds up under the lemon custard. To make the filling, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until it thickens. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter until smooth. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks and slowly temper them by whisking in a small amount of the hot lemon mixture. Gradually add the tempered yolks back into the saucepan and cook for a few more minutes until the filling is thick and glossy. Pour the lemon filling into the baked pie crust and set aside.
For the meringue, beat egg whites with a hand mixer until soft peaks form. Slowly add sugar, a little at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff glossy peaks form. Spread the meringue over the warm lemon filling, making sure it touches the edges of the crust to seal. Use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls. Bake the pie at 350°F until the meringue is golden brown, about 12 to 15 minutes. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to help the filling set properly.
Pro Tips
For the best results, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice as bottled juice lacks the bright citrus flavor. When making the filling, tempering the egg yolks slowly prevents curdling and ensures a smooth texture. It is also important to spread the meringue onto the hot filling so that the heat helps cook the base of the meringue and prevents separation. Be sure the meringue touches the crust around the edges to seal it in and avoid shrinking. Let the pie cool at room temperature first, then refrigerate to firm up without causing condensation on top of the meringue.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Lemon meringue pie is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right extras can elevate it further. Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness or sprinkle a little grated lemon zest over the meringue for a pop of color. Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries pair beautifully with the tart lemon flavor and add a juicy contrast. As for drinks, light options such as iced tea, sparkling water with a lemon twist, or a mild chamomile tea complement the pie without overpowering its bright taste.
Conclusion
Classic lemon meringue pie is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the perfect mix of tangy and sweet. With its flaky crust, silky lemon filling, and airy meringue topping, it is both timeless and irresistible. This recipe gives you the confidence to make a show stopping pie that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you are baking for a holiday, a family gathering, or just to treat yourself, this lemon meringue pie is guaranteed to impress and satisfy every craving.
