Famous Lemon Pie
Famous Lemon Pie offers a tangy and sweet citrus flavor with a creamy filling topped with fluffy meringue. Its bright, refreshing taste makes it perfect for summer gatherings or as a delightful dessert to impress guests. The combination of tart lemon and golden meringue creates a classic, irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cornstarch and lemon juice in a pan.
- Separate 3 yolks from egg whites, set the whites aside.
- Add egg yolks to lemon mixture and stir, then add boiling water and cook until thick.
- Pour the lemon mixture into the baked pie shell.
- Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue onto the pie.
- Bake at 325°F for 15 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a perfectly smooth filling, ensure the cornstarch is well dissolved before adding it to the boiling water. If you need a substitute for lemon, try using lime juice for a different flavor profile. For a less sweet meringue, reduce the sugar by a few tablespoons. Make sure your mixing bowl for the egg whites is completely clean to achieve the best volume.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this Famous Lemon Pie chilled, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Ice Cream Cookies for a delightful dessert spread. Fresh berries can also complement the tartness of the pie, adding a fresh touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent the meringue from weeping. It's best consumed within 2-3 days. If reheating, do so in a low oven to warm gently without cooking the meringue further.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Famous Lemon Pie contains roughly 281 calories, with 4g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% 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 this pie in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the meringue just before serving to maintain its fluffy texture. This way, you can enjoy the pie fresh and prevent the meringue from becoming soggy.
What can I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can occur if it's not cooked properly or if there’s too much moisture. To prevent this, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating and avoid introducing any fat in the bowl. Baking the meringue until it's golden can also help seal moisture.
How can I tell when the filling is thick enough?
The filling is ready when it reaches a pudding-like consistency and coats the back of a spoon. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but still pliable. Stir continuously while cooking to avoid lumps and ensure even thickening.
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).