Lemon Meringue Pie Dessert (Print-Friendly Version)

A classic dessert with tangy lemon filling, golden meringue topping, and crisp, buttery crust.

# Ingredients:

→ Pie Base

01 - 1 x 23 cm pie crust, pre-baked

→ Lemon Filling

02 - 300 g granulated sugar
03 - 40 g cornstarch
04 - 0.25 tsp salt
05 - 355 ml water
06 - 120 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice (from approximately 2–3 lemons)
07 - 1 tbsp lemon zest
08 - 4 large egg yolks
09 - 28 g unsalted butter

→ Meringue Topping

10 - 4 large egg whites
11 - 0.25 tsp cream of tartar
12 - 75 g granulated sugar

# Steps:

01 - Set oven to 175°C and prepare work surface.
02 - In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water and lemon juice until smooth.
03 - Heat mixture over medium, stirring continuously until thickened and bubbling. Boil for 1 minute, then remove pan from heat.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Gradually incorporate several tablespoons of the hot lemon mixture into the yolks, whisking to combine, then return to the saucepan.
05 - Return the pan to medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and blend in lemon zest and unsalted butter until completely smooth.
06 - Pour the hot lemon filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading evenly.
07 - In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar while beating until the meringue holds stiff, glossy peaks.
08 - Evenly distribute meringue over the hot filling, ensuring it seals to the pastry edge to prevent shrinking.
09 - Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until meringue is golden brown.
10 - Allow pie to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before slicing.

# Notes & Tips:

01 - Ensure meringue completely covers the filling and touches the crust to prevent separation and weeping.
02 - For optimal flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice.
03 - The dessert is best served the same day but can be refrigerated for up to two days.