Lemon Meringue Pie: A Classic Dessert Recipe
This recipe will guide you through making a delicious and visually stunning lemon meringue pie, a classic dessert that's sure to impress. We'll focus on creating a perfectly tart lemon filling and a cloud-like meringue topping. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups (355ml) water
- 1 cup (240ml) fresh lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
For the Meringue:
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Chill: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Blind bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Making the Lemon Filling:
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Add water and lemon juice: Gradually whisk in the water and lemon juice until smooth.
- Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened.
- Temper egg yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks slightly. Slowly whisk a few spoonfuls of the hot lemon mixture into the egg yolks to temper them. Then, pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
- Stir in butter and zest: Stir in the butter and lemon zest until melted and smooth.
- Pour into crust: Pour the lemon filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
Making the Meringue:
- Beat egg whites: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Add cream of tartar: Add the cream of tartar and continue beating.
- Gradually add sugar: Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Spread meringue: Spread the meringue over the hot lemon filling, sealing the edges to the crust to prevent shrinkage.
- Brown meringue: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden brown.
- Cool: Let the pie cool completely before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference in the flavor.
- Don't overbake the meringue: Overbaking can result in a dry, cracked meringue.
- Let the pie cool completely: This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a runny pie.
- Get creative with the crust: Try a different crust recipe or add a decorative edge.
This recipe provides a fantastic foundation for your lemon meringue pie creation. Remember to adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking. Enjoy baking and savor this delicious classic!