Best Lemon Meringue Pie
A luscious lemon meringue pie featuring tangy lemon filling topped with fluffy meringue, perfect for citrus lovers and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare and bake the pastry shell; then cool.
- In a saucepan, mix sugar, cornstarch, flour, and salt.
- Gradually add hot water, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir over high heat until the mixture boils; then reduce heat and cook for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir a small amount of hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks, then return the egg mixture to the saucepan.
- Bring to a boil again, cook and stir for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Add butter and lemon peel; then slowly add lemon juice and mix well.
- Pour the lemon filling into the cooled pastry shell.
- Spread meringue over the filling, sealing the edges.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden.
- Cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker filling, increase the cornstarch slightly. If you prefer a sweeter meringue, add a bit more sugar to the egg whites. To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the filling. If you don't have a baked pie shell, you can use a store-bought version or make a graham cracker crust for variation. This pie pairs wonderfully with a side of Crunch Pea Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pie chilled for the best flavor and texture. Garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh berries for a pop of color. It pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful meal, consider serving it after a hearty dish like Cheese Hash Brown Potatoes, creating a satisfying balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon meringue pie in the refrigerator, loosely covered to avoid sogginess. It's best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. If reheating is necessary, place individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to warm through without compromising the meringue's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Lemon Meringue Pie contains roughly 549 calories, with 16g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 968mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the pie filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon filling in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before filling the pie shell. Make sure to cover it to prevent a skin from forming. Just remember to add the meringue and bake it right before serving for the best texture.
How do I prevent the meringue from weeping?
To prevent weeping, ensure that the lemon filling is hot when you spread the meringue over it. Seal the edges well to prevent steam from escaping. You can also add a bit of cornstarch to the meringue for added stability, ensuring a perfect finish.
What can I substitute for lemon juice?
If you're out of fresh lemon juice, you can use bottled lemon juice or even lime juice for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, but it will still create a delicious pie. You can also experiment with other citrus juices for unique variations.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).