jello lemon meringue pie recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
jello lemon meringue pie recipe
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The Best jello lemon meringue pie recipe

I’ve been making Jello lemon meringue pie for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic dessert that’s easy to make and tastes amazing.

I love how the tangy lemon filling is balanced by the sweetness of the meringue topping. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites to assist with.

The combination of textures and flavors is just perfect. I’ve served this pie at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a special treat for my kids’ birthdays.

It’s a versatile recipe that works well for any occasion. The best part is that it’s relatively healthy compared to other desserts, thanks to the use of Jello and a light meringue topping.

My family loves how refreshing it is, especially during the hot summer months. We often have leftovers, but that’s not a problem since it stores well in the fridge for up to three days.

Jello Lemon Meringue Pie

Jello Lemon Meringue Pie

4.9 from 983 votes

A refreshing twist on a classic dessert, this pie uses lemon jello for a bright, tangy filling. The creamy jello layer is topped with a fluffy meringue and baked until golden.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

1 (3 oz) package lemon jello
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup water
3 large egg yolks, beaten
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Meringue

3 large egg whites, at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Combine graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl, then stir in melted butter until moistened.
3Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
4Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden, then let cool completely on a wire rack.
5In a small bowl, dissolve lemon jello in 1 cup boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
6Add 1/2 cup cold water and set aside.
7In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and salt, then gradually whisk in 1 cup water over medium heat.
8Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 5-7 minutes.
9Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually whisk half of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks to temper them.
10Return the egg yolk mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until it thickens further.
11Remove from heat and stir in butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and the dissolved jello mixture until smooth.
12Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
13Cover the pie with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming.
14Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the filling is completely set and firm to the touch.
15Preheat oven to 350°F.
16In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.
17Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form and the sugar is dissolved, about 3-4 minutes.
18Beat in vanilla extract.
19Spread the meringue over the chilled filling, making sure to seal the edges to the crust to prevent shrinking.
20Use the back of a spoon to create decorative peaks.
21Bake for 10-12 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
22Let the pie cool on a wire rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

🔧Equipment

9-inch pie plate
Medium saucepan
Electric mixer
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 250mg🌾Total Carbs: 46g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 32g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For best results, ensure the egg whites are at room temperature and free of any yolk for a stable meringue. The pie must chill for the full time to allow the jello filling to set properly.

Watch Video Of How Jello Lemon Meringue Pie Works

I make this Jello lemon meringue pie for every family gathering because it comes together fast and still tastes like I spent all afternoon on it.

The kids love the tart lemon filling and the fluffy meringue, and the adults always go back for a second slice.

It is a good idea for any occasion because it feeds a crowd, travels well, and never sits on the table for long.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Jello Lemon Meringue Pie

Q: What type of Jello should I use?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use lemon-flavored Jello. You can also experiment with other flavors like lime or orange if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the amount of lemon juice accordingly.

Q: Can I substitute regular sugar for the granulated sugar?

A: While you can use regular sugar instead of granulated sugar, keep in mind that it will change the texture of the meringue topping slightly. Granulated sugar helps create a lighter, fluffier meringue.

Q: How long does it take to set?

A: It usually takes around 3-4 hours for the Jello mixture to set in the refrigerator, depending on its temperature and how well it’s mixed.

Q: Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead of making my own?

A: While you can use store-bought whipped cream as a substitute, keep in mind that it will affect the overall taste and texture of your pie.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients except for the egg whites used in the meringue topping.

Q: Can I make individual servings?

A: Yes, you can easily portion out individual servings using small cups or ramekins before refrigerating them.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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