Real Lemon Pie
A tangy and sweet lemon pie featuring a creamy lemon filling topped with fluffy meringue. Its bright citrus flavor makes it a perfect dessert for spring and summer gatherings, delighting fans of tart and sweet contrasts. Easy to prepare with classic ingredients, it’s sure to impress any lemon lover.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar and cornstarch together in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add cold water and stir to combine.
- Cook in microwave, stirring often, until the mixture reaches a medium consistency.
- Add beaten egg yolks, lemon juice, and grated lemon peel to the mixture.
- Return to microwave and cook until thickened.
- Use a hand blender to smooth out if too thick.
- Stir in margarine until melted and incorporated.
- Pour the lemon filling into the baked pie crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with 1/3 cup sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the hot lemon filling, sealing to the edges of the crust.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth lemon filling, make sure to stir constantly when cooking in the microwave. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider substituting the margarine with unsalted butter. If fresh lemons are unavailable, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh juice yields the best taste. For a unique twist, add a pinch of salt to the meringue for enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon pie chilled for a refreshing dessert, and consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. It also pairs beautifully with Hot Biscuits for a delightful brunch spread. For an added touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional lemon zest before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from becoming soggy. This pie is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) just until warmed through, but avoid overheating to keep the meringue intact.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Real Lemon Pie contains roughly 449 calories, with 16g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
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 store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield a delicious pie. Just make sure to bake it according to the package instructions before filling it with the lemon mixture.
How do I know when the meringue is done baking?
The meringue is done when it turns a light golden brown color and feels firm to the touch. Keep an eye on it while baking, as it can brown quickly. If it starts to brown too fast, you can cover it loosely with foil.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. However, it's best to add the meringue just before serving to maintain its texture. If made ahead, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.
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).