Shaker Lemon Meringue Pie
A tangy and sweet lemon meringue pie featuring a crisp baked shell, zesty lemon filling, and fluffy browned meringue topping, perfect for dessert gatherings and citrus lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1 cup sugar, flour, and salt in a saucepan; add water.
- Beat egg yolks; add to the sugar mixture.
- Cook over hot water, stirring until thickened.
- Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add margarine, lemon juice, and lemon rind.
- Pour into the baked 9-inch pie shell.
- Beat egg whites until soft peaks form; add 3 tablespoons sugar.
- Beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spoon meringue over the pie filling.
- Bake in a 400°F oven until the meringue is browned.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the lemon flavor, consider using freshly grated lemon zest instead of the lemon rind. If you're short on time, store-bought meringue can be substituted for the homemade version. Ensure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry when whipping egg whites for the best results. For a twist, try pairing this pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Shaker Lemon Meringue Pie chilled, garnished with fresh lemon slices or whipped cream for added flair. It pairs beautifully with a Julienne Vegetable Plate for a balanced meal. Consider serving alongside a hot beverage, like tea or coffee, which complements the pie's sweetness. This dessert is perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Shaker Lemon Meringue Pie should be stored in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap. This will help maintain the texture of the meringue while preventing it from becoming too soggy. Consume within 2-3 days for the best taste and quality. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shaker Lemon Meringue Pie contains roughly 224 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1025mg per serving (45% 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 a different type of pie crust?
Yes, you can use a store-bought or homemade graham cracker crust for a different flavor profile. A gluten-free crust also works well if you're accommodating dietary restrictions. Just ensure it's pre-baked before adding the filling.
What can I do if my meringue weeps?
Weeping meringue can occur due to excess moisture or undercooking. To prevent this, ensure your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks and avoid baking in high humidity. Baking the pie until the meringue is fully set and lightly browned also helps.
Is it possible to make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the pie with meringue on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste and texture.
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).