Perfectly Baked Lemon Meringue Pie

Lemon meringue pie is a classic dessert that has been cherished by many for its delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors. It’s a favorite among food enthusiasts looking to enjoy something both rich and refreshing in one bite.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups sugar
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• Zest and juice of 6 lemons
• 4 eggs, separated (for the meringue)
• 1 unbaked pie crust

Instructions for Lemon Meringue Pie

To prepare the filling:

1. Cream together 1 cup of sugar, cornstarch, and melted butter until smooth.
2. Add lemon zest and juice to the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
3. In a separate bowl, beat 4 egg yolks for approximately one minute until foamy.
4. Gradually add beaten eggs into the lemon mixture while constantly stirring.

Baking Time and Servings

Cooking time: Approximately 50 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Servings: The pie makes about 8 servings. This quantity should be enough for a small gathering or to satisfy the dessert cravings of your family.

How to Bake Lemon Meringue Pie

6. Pour the prepared filling into an unbaked pie crust.
7. Bake in preheated oven until set but not browned, for about 15 minutes. After this initial baking period, reduce heat to 300°F (150°C).
8. In a clean bowl, whisk egg whites until soft peaks form, gradually adding remaining sugar while continuing to whisk.
9. When the pie has cooled slightly in its pan, carefully spread the meringue over the filling without disturbing the top crust of the pie. Be sure not to overfill as it will be baked again later and expand during this stage.
10. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for another 20-25 minutes, or until meringue is lightly browned and set.
11. Remove from oven and let cool completely before refrigerating for a minimum of two hours. The chilling process helps the pie to set properly so that it will maintain its shape when cut later on.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results

• Use Fresh Lemons: To ensure freshness and a bright flavor, always use fresh lemons. This adds an authentic taste to your pie that is unmatched by any commercial alternative.
• Bake at the Right Temperature: Maintaining consistent temperature during baking ensures even cooking without burning or undercooking parts of the dessert.
• Let It Set Properly: Just as with other custard-based desserts, letting your lemon meringue pie chill thoroughly before cutting allows it to set and maintain its creamy texture throughout serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

The nutritional information for one serving includes approximately 350 calories per slice, with 17 grams of fat, 48 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of protein. While it is a rich dessert, enjoying it in moderation can still be part of a balanced diet.

Cooking Tips

For those who want to try this classic dessert but have dietary restrictions or preferences such as following a low-carb diet, there are ways to make adjustments. By substituting some of the sugar with artificial sweeteners and choosing egg whites only for the meringue part, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising on health.

Alternatively, if you prefer something lighter, you might consider making a simple no-bake version by simply mixing lemon curd into the baked pie crust before spreading meringue over it. This option cuts down on baking time and calories but retains all the flavor elements of this beloved dessert.

Conclusion

The process of creating your very own lemon meringue pie is not only fun but also rewarding as you get to indulge in something that has delighted people for generations. Whether served at a casual gathering or on a special occasion, this treat will surely be appreciated by all who taste it.