Grandma's Lemon Meringue Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. The lemon filling is made with fresh lemon juice and zest, creating a vibrant and zesty base. The meringue topping, whipped to perfection, adds a sweet contrast to the tart filling. Baked until golden, this pie offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that are sure to please any palate.

Ingredients

• 1 cup white sugar

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1½ cups water

• 2 medium lemons, juiced and zested

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 4 egg yolks, beaten

• 1 (9 inch) prepared pie crust, baked

• 4 egg whites

• ½ cup white sugar

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in water, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a boil. Stir in butter.

3. Place egg yolks in a small bowl and gradually whisk in ½ cup of the hot sugar mixture. Whisk the egg yolk mixture back into the remaining sugar mixture in the saucepan. Bring to a boil and continue to cook while stirring constantly until thick. Remove from heat.

4. Pour the lemon filling into the baked pie crust.

5. In a large glass or metal bowl, whip egg whites until foamy. Add ½ cup sugar gradually, and continue to whip until stiff peaks form. Spread the meringue over the pie, sealing the edges at the crust.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

7. Cool the pie on a wire rack for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Inactive Time: 3 hours

• Total Time: 4 hours

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Lemon-Lime Twist: Add a bit of lime juice and zest to the lemon filling for a citrusy twist.

• Berry Infusion: Incorporate fresh berries into the lemon filling for added flavor and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate the pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Meringue can be sensitive to reheating. It's best served chilled, but if you prefer to warm it, do so gently in a low oven to prevent the meringue from weeping.

FAQs

How do I prevent the meringue from shrinking?

Ensure that the meringue is spread all the way to the edges of the crust to seal it completely. This helps prevent shrinking during baking.

Can I make the lemon filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling the pie.

Why did my meringue weep?

Meringue weeping can occur if the sugar isn't fully dissolved or if the pie isn't baked long enough to set the meringue. Ensure stiff peaks form before baking and bake until the meringue is golden brown.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield a delicious result.

How can I make the meringue sweeter?

Increase the amount of sugar in the meringue to suit your taste, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can affect the texture.

Can I freeze this pie?

It's not recommended to freeze lemon meringue pie, as the meringue can become watery upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh.

How do I know when the meringue is done?

The meringue is done when it forms stiff peaks and is golden brown on top.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Bake the pie crust before adding the lemon filling to create a barrier that helps prevent sogginess.

Can I add a decorative design to the meringue?

Yes, you can use a spoon or spatula to create peaks or swirls in the meringue before baking for a decorative touch.

Conclusion

Grandma's Lemon Meringue Pie is more than just a dessert; it's a slice of nostalgia and a testament to timeless baking traditions. With its perfect balance of tart lemon filling and sweet meringue topping, this pie is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you're honoring family traditions or creating new ones, this recipe is a delightful choice that brings joy with every bite.