Lemon Vodka Meringue Pie
A tangy lemon vodka meringue pie features a zesty lemon filling with a hint of vodka, topped with fluffy golden meringue, perfect for citrus lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prick the bottom of the thawed pie crust.
- Bake the pie crust as directed until golden brown.
- Combine cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
- Stir well to combine.
- Add water, lemon peel, lemon juice, and vodka to the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture boils.
- Remove from heat.
- Whisk eggs in a small bowl until combined.
- Whisk in a small amount of hot sauce, then slowly whisk eggs into the sauce.
- Return to heat and cook, stirring until thick.
- Add butter to the mixture and blend well.
- Pour the lemon filling into the baked pie crust.
- Spread meringue topping over the pie to the edge of the crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and cool on a rack for 15 minutes.
- Refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth lemon filling, always add the hot mixture slowly to the whisked eggs to temper them, preventing curdling. If you don't have vodka, you can substitute it with additional lemon juice or use a flavored extract for a twist. For a richer meringue, try adding a pinch of cornstarch to stabilize it. This pie pairs beautifully with Mommy'S Sweet Potato Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, garnished with additional lemon zest or fresh berries for a pop of color. This pie is delightful on its own but can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. For a full meal, consider serving with light salads or cheese and olive tea sandwiches for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from becoming soggy. Consume within 2-3 days for the best texture. If you need to reheat, do so gently in a low oven to warm the pie without compromising the meringue's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Vodka Meringue Pie contains roughly 370 calories, with 5g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1126mg per serving (49% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, the pie can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, add the meringue topping on the day of serving to keep it fluffy and prevent it from weeping.
What can I use if I don't have a frozen pie crust?
If you prefer homemade, you can make a simple pie crust from scratch using flour, butter, and water. Alternatively, a graham cracker crust can also work well with this lemon filling for a different texture and flavor.
How do I prevent the meringue from shrinking?
To prevent shrinking, spread the meringue all the way to the edge of the crust, sealing it well. Additionally, baking it at the right temperature ensures that it sets properly. If you want added stability, consider adding cornstarch to the meringue mixture.
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).