Lemon Custard Meringue Pie
Lemon Custard Meringue Pie offers a tangy, sweet lemon filling topped with fluffy meringue, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for a delightful dessert experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar, salt, and butter together.
- Add flour and mix until smooth.
- Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in lemon juice, then gradually add milk.
- Cook in a double boiler on medium heat until thick.
- Pour the lemon custard into a prepared pie shell.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add sugar to the egg whites while beating.
- Spread the meringue over the lemon filling.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until the meringue is light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh lemon zest in addition to the lemon juice. If you prefer a lighter meringue, use superfine sugar to help achieve stiff peaks. If you're out of fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can be a substitute, but fresh is best for flavor. For a twist, try adding a hint of vanilla extract to the custard mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemon Custard Meringue Pie chilled for the best texture. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. This pie is a delightful dessert for gatherings, especially during warm weather or festive occasions. Consider serving alongside a light salad or a cup of Ginger's Onion And Potato Soup for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture of the meringue, avoid pressing the wrap tightly against it. If you need to reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for a few minutes to warm through without melting the meringue.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Custard Meringue Pie contains roughly 432 calories, with 13g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and vitamin C.
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 crust from scratch?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust can add a personal touch to your Lemon Custard Meringue Pie. Use a simple recipe with flour, butter, and water, and allow it to chill before rolling out. This will ensure a flaky crust that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
What should I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can occur if the sugar isn't fully dissolved or if it's baked at too low a temperature. To prevent this, ensure you're using superfine sugar and bake immediately after spreading the meringue on the pie. Baking at 350°F (175°C) will help set the meringue properly.
How can I tell when the custard is thick enough?
The custard is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds a line when you run your finger through it. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes over medium heat in the double boiler. Keep stirring to prevent it from sticking or burning.
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).