If you’re looking for the perfect Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This classic dessert combines a buttery crust, smooth tangy lemon filling, and fluffy golden meringue topping. The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes lemon meringue pie a favorite worldwide, whether served at family gatherings, holidays, or special occasions.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to make lemon meringue pie from scratch with step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and expert techniques to ensure perfect results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe
This homemade lemon meringue pie delivers bakery-quality results with simple ingredients and easy steps. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
- Smooth, creamy lemon filling
- Light, fluffy meringue topping
- Crisp, buttery pie crust
- Ideal for beginners and experienced bakers
Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to citrus dessert.
Ingredients for Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe
To make the best lemon meringue pie, you’ll need three main components: pie crust, lemon filling, and meringue topping.
For the Pie Crust
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3–4 tablespoons ice water
For the Lemon Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups water
- 2 lemons (juice and zest)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 egg yolks (beaten)
For the Meringue Topping
- 4 egg whites
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ cup sugar
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes preparation easier:
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Electric mixer (recommended)
- Rolling pin
- Spatula
How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie Step by Step
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly layered pie.
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Gradually add ice water and form dough.
- Roll out the dough and place it in a pie dish.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let it cool completely.
A crisp crust prevents sogginess and supports the creamy filling.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt.
- Stir in water, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Cook over medium heat until thickened.
- Slowly whisk in egg yolks.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, then add butter.
- Pour the hot filling into the baked crust.
The filling should be smooth, thick, and glossy.
Step 3: Prepare the Meringue
- Beat egg whites until foamy.
- Add cream of tartar and continue beating.
- Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
Properly whipped meringue should hold its shape and appear shiny.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Spread meringue over hot filling.
- Seal edges completely to prevent shrinking.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool before slicing.
Cooling allows the filling to set properly.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe
Use Fresh Lemons
Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor and natural acidity.
Seal the Meringue
Always spread meringue to the crust edges to prevent shrinking or weeping.
Avoid Overbaking
Overbaking causes the meringue to crack or become rubbery.
Let the Pie Cool Completely
Cutting too soon may result in a runny filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you overlook details. Avoid these common issues:
- Runny filling: Cook the lemon mixture until fully thickened.
- Weeping meringue: Spread meringue on hot filling.
- Soggy crust: Pre-bake the crust thoroughly.
- Flat meringue: Beat egg whites to stiff peaks.
Attention to these details ensures success.
Variations of Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe
You can customize your lemon meringue pie with creative twists.
Graham Cracker Crust
Use crushed biscuits mixed with butter for a sweeter base.
Lime Meringue Pie
Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a tropical flavor.
Mini Lemon Meringue Pies
Make individual portions using muffin tins.
Coconut Lemon Meringue Pie
Add shredded coconut for extra texture and taste.
Storage and Serving Tips
How to Store
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap.
- Avoid freezing, as the meringue texture changes.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Garnish with lemon slices or zest.
- Pair with tea or coffee.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Slice)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 14g
- Sugar: 30g
Values vary depending on the ingredients used.
Health Benefits of Lemon
Lemons add more than just flavor to this dessert:
- Rich in vitamin C
- Supports immune health
- Contains antioxidants
- Aids digestion
This makes lemon desserts both delicious and refreshing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Does My Meringue Weep?
This happens when meringue isn’t sealed properly or sugar isn’t fully dissolved.
Can I Make Lemon Meringue Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, prepare it one day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
How Do I Know When Meringue Is Ready?
Stiff peaks should form when lifting the mixer.
Can I Use Store-Bought Crust?
Yes, but a homemade crust gives better flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe is the perfect blend of tangy citrus filling, crisp crust, and airy meringue topping. With simple ingredients and careful preparation, you can create a stunning dessert that tastes as good as it looks.
