Lemon Pie (Tart)
A tangy and sweet lemon pie with a crisp crust and fluffy meringue topping, perfect for citrus lovers and special occasions seeking a vibrant dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, hot water, and grated lemon rind; boil for 10 minutes.
- Mix the juice of 2 large lemons, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Add the lemon mixture to the boiling water mixture; add butter and stir until thickened.
- Pour into a cooled pie shell.
- Make meringue by beating 2 egg whites with 4 tablespoons sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the filling, sealing to the crust.
- Brown in a 350° oven until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled. If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the pie shell with a gluten-free crust or a simple almond flour crust. To enhance the meringue, add a pinch of cream of tartar while beating the egg whites for stability. This tart pairs beautifully with Vanilla Flakes for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon pie chilled, garnished with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It makes a delightful dessert after a heavy meal and pairs well with a light salad or as part of a brunch spread. Consider serving it alongside Mary'S Best Bean Casserole for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lemon pie in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. It can be kept for up to three days. To reheat, let it come to room temperature before serving, as meringue can lose its texture if heated in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Pie (Tart) contains roughly 190 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of 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 use a different type of citrus for this pie?
Yes, you can substitute lime or orange juice for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and acidity will vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly to taste.
What should I do if my meringue weeps?
To prevent weeping, ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry before whipping the egg whites. Adding a little cornstarch to the sugar can also help stabilize the meringue.
How can I tell when the pie filling is thick enough?
The filling should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape when drizzled. It usually takes a few minutes of stirring after combining the mixtures to achieve the right consistency.
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).