Marie'S Lemon Pie
A tangy lemon pie with a smooth lemon filling topped with fluffy meringue, perfect for citrus lovers and ideal for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan.
- Add hot water to the mixture and cook until clear, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
- Add beaten egg yolks, lemon juice, and margarine to the saucepan.
- Cook until the filling is thickened and done.
- Pour the lemon filling into a baked pie shell.
- Top the pie with beaten egg whites and cream of tartar to make meringue.
- Bake or broil briefly until meringue is golden if desired, then cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a perfectly smooth lemon filling, ensure you stir constantly while cooking to prevent lumps. If you prefer a lighter meringue, use fresh egg whites at room temperature and beat until stiff peaks form. For a twist, consider using orange juice instead of lemon for a different flavor profile. This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Marie's Lemon Pie chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh berries for an elegant touch. This pie makes a delightful dessert after a light meal or pairs wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea. Consider offering it alongside a fresh salad, like a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette, for a balanced meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, to keep the meringue from becoming soggy. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. For best results, consume within 2-3 days, as the meringue may start to weep over time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marie'S Lemon Pie contains roughly 478 calories, with 8g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% 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 use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lemon juice offers the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just ensure it is 100% lemon juice without additives. However, fresh lemon juice will give your pie a brighter and more vibrant taste.
How do I prevent the meringue from shrinking?
To prevent shrinking, ensure the meringue is spread all the way to the edge of the pie crust, sealing it well. Additionally, bake the pie at a low temperature to set the meringue without overcooking it, which can lead to shrinkage.
What if my lemon filling is too runny?
If your lemon filling is too runny, you can cook it a bit longer over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens. If it has fully cooled and remains runny, you might need to start over, as the filling needs to set properly in the pie shell.
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).