How to Make the Best Lemon Meringue Pie

Your ultimate guide to a classic dessert that combines flavor, texture, and simplicity!

Introduction

Are you ready to impress your friends and family with an irresistible dessert? This easy cooking recipe for beginners is perfect for creating a homemade dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Lemon meringue pie combines the tangy zest of citrus with the fluffy sweetness of meringue, making it a staple in traditional and international cuisine.

Ingredients

Before we dive in, make sure you have the essential kitchen tools for cooking and baking ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the crust: 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup of melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
• For the filling: 4 egg yolks, 1 ½ cups of water, 1 cup of sugar, 1/3 cup of cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 cup of lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons of lemon zest.
• For the meringue: 4 egg whites, 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar, and 1/2 cup of sugar.

Instructions

Follow these simple baking secrets to create a masterpiece:

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool.
2. Make the filling: In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water and cook over medium heat until thickened. Add egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest, stirring constantly. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
3. Whip up the meringue: Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, ensuring it touches the crust to prevent shrinkage.
4. Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown. Cool for an hour and refrigerate for 3-4 hours before serving.

Cooking Tips for Busy Individuals

If you’re short on time, this recipe is a lifesaver. The healthy and quick meal idea uses simple ingredients and requires minimal prep. Want to make it vegetarian and vegan-friendly? Swap the eggs with aquafaba and use a vegan butter substitute for the crust!

Why You’ll Love This Pie

This family-friendly dinner idea is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet treat after a meal. It combines the best of homemade dishes with the elegance of traditional and international cuisine.

Looking for more? Explore our collection of easy cooking recipes for beginners, healthy and quick meal ideas, and simple baking secrets to elevate your culinary skills.