Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie is a classic, zesty dessert with a perfect balance of tart lemon filling and sweet, fluffy meringue. This homemade pie is sure to bring back fond memories and delight your taste buds with every bite.
π Ingredients:
For the Crust:
π 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade), pre-baked
For the Lemon Filling:
π 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
π₯ 1/2 cup cornstarch
π§ 1/4 tsp salt
π₯ 1 1/2 cups water
π 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
π 1 tbsp lemon zest
π₯ 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
π§ 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Meringue:
π₯ 4 large egg whites
π¬ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
π₯ 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
π₯ 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
π Directions:
- Preheat Oven: π₯ Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
- Prepare the Lemon Filling: π In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the water, whisking until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Lemon and Egg Yolks: π Remove the saucepan from the heat and slowly whisk in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks. Return the mixture to the heat and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
- Fill the Pie Crust: π Pour the hot lemon filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Set aside.
- Prepare the Meringue: π₯ In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until frothy. Add the cream of tartar and vanilla extract, then gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Top with Meringue: π Spoon the meringue over the hot lemon filling, spreading it to the edges of the crust to seal in the filling. Use the back of a spoon to create swirls and peaks on top of the meringue.
- Bake the Pie: π Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: βοΈ Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set.
π½ Serve:
Enjoy your tangy and sweet Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie, a perfect dessert for any occasion!
β± Preparation Time: 20 minutes
β± Cooking Time: 20 minutes
β± Chilling Time: 2 hours
β± Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
π½ Servings: 8 servings
π₯ Calories: 300 kcal per serving
π‘ Notes:
- Be sure to spread the meringue over the hot filling to prevent it from shrinking.
- This pie is best enjoyed the same day it’s made, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Enjoy your classic and delicious Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie! πβ¨