Heavenly Pie(Lemon Icebox Meringue)
Heavenly Lemon Icebox Meringue Pie features a crisp coconut meringue crust topped with tangy lemon filling and fluffy whipped cream, perfect for citrus lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift 1 cup sugar and cream of tartar together.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, but not dry.
- Gradually add remaining sugar, beating constantly.
- Spread meringue on the bottom and sides of a well-greased pie pan, making the bottom 1/4-inch thick and the sides thicker.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons shredded coconut on top of the meringue.
- Bake at 275°F until golden, approximately 30 minutes.
- Prepare lemon filling by mixing lemon juice, grated lemon rind, egg yolks, salt, and heavy cream as desired.
- Fill the baked meringue crust with lemon filling.
- Top with whipped heavy cream before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best meringue, ensure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of grease. If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute with lemon juice or vinegar in the same amount. If you prefer a different flavor, consider adding a few drops of vanilla extract to the lemon filling. This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover egg whites, and pairs beautifully with Quick Vanilla Ice Cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Heavenly Pie chilled for a refreshing dessert. Garnish with extra whipped cream and a sprinkle of coconut for an appealing presentation. It pairs well with fresh berries or a side of American recipes like Apple Oatmeal Muffins for a delightful brunch. For an extra touch, consider drizzling with a homemade lemon glaze.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The meringue may soften over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reheat, avoid the microwave; instead, place it in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes to warm the filling without compromising the texture of the meringue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heavenly Pie(Lemon Icebox Meringue) contains roughly 123 calories, with 8g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 990mg per serving (43% 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 meringue ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meringue a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered at room temperature until you're ready to fill it with the lemon mixture. However, it's best to fill the meringue right before serving to maintain its crispness.
What should I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can occur due to humidity or overmixing. To prevent this, avoid beating the egg whites in a humid environment and stop mixing as soon as you achieve stiff peaks. If it does weep, try to gently pat away excess moisture before serving.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its vibrant flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to taste the filling and adjust the sweetness if necessary, as bottled juice may have a different acidity level.
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).