basic lemon meringue pie recipe

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The Best basic lemon meringue pie recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite basic lemon meringue pie recipe. This classic dessert has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason – it’s incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

The combination of tangy lemon filling and sweet, fluffy meringue topping is a match made in heaven. My kids love helping me make the pie, and I love watching them learn the process of creating something so delicious from scratch.

We’ve served this pie at countless family gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a simple weeknight dessert. It’s perfect for any occasion, and the best part is that it’s actually quite healthy considering it’s a dessert!

The lemon filling is made with real lemons, no artificial flavorings or preservatives here. And the meringue topping is just egg whites and sugar – no weird ingredients to worry about.

This pie is a true classic, and I’m confident your family will love it just as much as mine does.

Basic Lemon Meringue Pie

Basic Lemon Meringue Pie

4.5 from 1882 votes

A classic dessert featuring a tangy lemon filling and light, fluffy meringue on a buttery crust. This recipe serves 4 people and takes 45 minutes to prepare and cook.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
6 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup lemon juice
4 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Meringue

4 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup granulated sugar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well mixed.
3Press the mixture evenly into a 9-inch pie dish.
4Bake for 7 minutes, then remove from oven and set aside to cool.
5The crust should be lightly golden.
6In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 1/2 cups sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
7Gradually whisk in lemon juice and egg yolks until smooth.
8Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
9Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
10Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
11Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
12In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
13Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
14Gently fold in the vanilla extract.
15Spread the meringue over the hot filling, sealing the edges to the crust.
16Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
17Watch carefully as it can burn quickly.
18Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
19The filling should be set and the meringue should be firm.

🔧Equipment

Pie dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Electric mixer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 500mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 40g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

Tips: To ensure a smooth filling, whisk constantly while cooking and avoid overcooking. For a decorative touch, use a spoon to create peaks in the meringue before baking.

Watch Video Of How Basic Lemon Meringue Pie Works

To store your leftover pie, simply place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to serve it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before slicing into wedges.

For an extra-special treat, try serving your leftover pie chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top – trust me when I say your family will love it!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Lemon Meringue Pie

Q: What kind of lemons should I use for the filling?

You can use either Eureka or Lisbon lemons for the filling – they both work well and have a similar flavor profile.

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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