Chess Meringue Pie

Prep: 15 min Cook: 35 min Cuisine: American

A delightful meringue-topped pie featuring a sweet custard filling, perfect for dessert lovers and suitable for family gatherings or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 1 teaspoon meal
  • 1/2 stick margarine, melted
  • 1 small can Pet milk (5 1/2 oz.)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/4 cup sugar

Instructions

  1. Mix 1 cup sugar, egg yolks, meal, margarine, Pet milk, and vanilla.
  2. Pour into an unbaked pie shell.
  3. Bake at 400° for 15 minutes.
  4. Reduce oven temperature to 350° and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the pie is set.
  5. When the pie is done, add the cream of tartar to the egg whites.
  6. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  7. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating until well mixed.
  8. Spread the meringue on the baked pie.
  9. Return to the 350° oven and bake until the meringue is browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you don't have Pet milk, evaporated milk can be a good substitute. Ensure your egg whites are free of yolk for the best meringue texture. If you want to add a twist, a hint of lemon zest can enhance the overall taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of Chess Meringue Pie chilled, garnished with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful dessert spread, consider including Peanut Quick Cake or Motts Quick-N-Easy Cake alongside it.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Chess Meringue Pie in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. For best results, consume within 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature if needed, but the meringue may lose its original texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chess Meringue Pie contains roughly 449 calories, with 2g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (59% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.

449 kcal 22% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.5g 5% DV
Total Fat 21.6g 28% DV
Carbs 41.4g 15% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 5.4g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 231.6mg 10% DV
Potassium 2765.6mg 59% DV
Cholesterol 36.9mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12.9mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 22.1mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 58.9mg 5% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Contains Milk Egg

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 use regular milk instead of Pet milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk for Pet milk, but the pie may be slightly less creamy. If you have whole milk or half-and-half, they can also work well for a richer texture.

What can I do if my meringue weeps?

Weeping meringue often occurs due to excess moisture. Make sure the egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks and avoid humidity when making the pie. Adding a bit of cornstarch can also help stabilize the meringue.

How do I know when the meringue is done baking?

The meringue is done when it is golden brown on top and feels firm to the touch. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, and you can use the oven light to check without opening the door.

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).

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