There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert combines a tart, refreshing lemon filling with a sweet, fluffy meringue that dances on your palate. Reminiscent of childhood gatherings, this delightful pie often brings back cherished memories of family recipes passed down through generations. Just one bite transports you to a sunlit kitchen filled with laughter and love.
In addition to its nostalgic charm, this beloved lemon meringue creation is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The refreshing citrus provides a zing, while the airy meringue adds a delightful contrast. Whether served at a holiday meal or a cozy afternoon tea, Grandma’s version of this citrusy treat is sure to impress and satisfy. Discover how to make this timeless pie that continues to warm hearts today!
The Magic of Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie:
Every family has its treasured recipes, but few evoke nostalgia quite like Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert combines a tangy, bright lemon filling with a fluffy, golden meringue topping, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. The process begins with a buttery pie crust that serves as a sturdy base, cradling the luscious lemon curd made from freshly squeezed juice, sugar, and egg yolks. As it bakes, the egg whites transform into a magnificent meringue, adding an airy contrast to the rich filling.
Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Those who enjoy fruity desserts might also delight in a lemon blueberry tart, which marries the same zesty goodness with sweet blueberries. Whether passed down through generations or enjoyed for the first time, this pie holds a special place in countless hearts. Indulge in a slice and savor the delightful memories it brings!
Ingredients for Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie:
To make the delightful Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients for the lemon filling and meringue:
Lemon Filling:
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups water
- 2 medium lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 egg yolks, beaten
- 1 (9-inch) prepared pie crust, baked
Meringue:
- 4 egg whites
- ½ cup white sugar
This classic pie combines a zesty lemon flavor with a fluffy meringue topping, making it a family favorite. For a similar lemon-flavored treat, try making a delicious Lemon Blueberry Tart that captures the essence of citrus delight. With this recipe, you’ll impress your loved ones and possibly create a new family heirloom to pass down, just like Grandma’s cherished pie.
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Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the tangy sweetness of Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie, a classic dessert featuring a zesty lemon filling topped with light and airy meringue.
Ingredients
1 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ½ 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
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup white sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups water, stirring until smooth.
- Add the juice and zest of 2 medium lemons and 2 tablespoons butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Remove from heat and temper in the 4 beaten egg yolks, stirring quickly.
- Pour the lemon filling into the baked pie crust.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a clean bowl, beat 4 egg whites until soft peaks form; gradually add ½ cup white sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, sealing the edges to prevent shrinking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
For best results, make sure to beat the egg whites in a clean bowl without any fat residue, as this helps achieve the best meringue.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 pie)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: Lemon Meringue Pie, Classic Dessert, Grandma's Recipe, American Cuisine
How to Prepare Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie:
To create a delightful Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie, start by preparing the lemon filling. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of white sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Add 1 ½ cups of water and cook over medium heat while constantly stirring until it thickens. Incorporate the juice and zest from 2 medium lemons along with 2 tablespoons of butter, ensuring everything blends well. Remove from heat and add the 4 beaten egg yolks, mixing thoroughly. Pour this luscious filling into a pre-baked 9-inch pie crust.
For the meringue, beat 4 egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add ½ cup of sugar until stiff peaks develop. Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, sealing it to the edges. Bake until golden. For more delicious lemon recipes, try this lemon-blueberry tart for a refreshing twist. For the complete Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie recipe, visit the detailed guide on Allrecipes. Enjoy your homemade pie!
Tips for Perfect Meringue:
Creating the perfect meringue for your Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie is essential for that signature fluffy topping. First, ensure your mixing bowl and utensils are clean and free of grease; any oil can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly. Use fresh eggs for optimal volume and stability; separate them while they’re cold, but let the egg whites come to room temperature before whipping. This step significantly enhances their ability to hold air.
When adding sugar, do so gradually while mixing at medium speed. This method allows the sugar to dissolve properly, ensuring a silky finish. Additionally, consider using cornstarch in the meringue. This helps stabilize it and reduces weeping. For some extra flavor, whipping in a splash of lemon juice can add a delightful touch, reflecting the lemony essence of the pie.
Finally, spread the meringue over the filling to seal it entirely, ensuring it doesn’t shrink. When ready to bake, check out my Lemon Blueberry Cake for more delightful lemon-infused inspiration that complements your pie beautifully. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Serving Suggestions for Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie:
To elevate your experience with Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie, consider pairing it with a refreshing beverage. A delightful option is coconut lavender lemonade, which can perfectly balance the pie’s sweetness and tartness. The light floral notes enhance the zesty lemon flavor, creating a harmonious dessert pairing. For a more textured treat, serve the pie alongside lemon blueberry cake that adds a berry twist to your meal.
When it comes to plating, a dollop of fresh whipped cream on the side can add extra creaminess, complementing the airy meringue topping. For a fun twist, serve mini lemon tarts as an appetizer or a small bite ahead of the pie. These miniature desserts keep the lemon theme while providing variety at your gathering. Moreover, incorporating seasonal fruits like berries will add a burst of color and extra flavor to the dessert table, making your serving options not only tasty but visually stunning.
Storage Tips for Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie:
To keep your delightful Grandma’s lemon meringue pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap to prevent the meringue from weeping. Ideally, consume within 1-2 days for the best texture and flavor. For a tasty twist, try pairing it with a refreshing lemon blueberry tart!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What makes Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie special?
Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie is cherished for its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. The zesty lemon filling combined with a light, fluffy meringue creates a symphony of flavors that evokes nostalgia for many.
Can I make the lemon filling in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon filling ahead of time. Just remember to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. This will enhance the flavor while keeping it fresh until you’re ready to assemble the pie.
What is the best way to store leftover pie?
To keep the meringue from weeping, it’s best to cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its texture and flavor for a couple of days.
Is it possible to use store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! While homemade crust adds a personal touch, using a store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield delicious results. This approach makes preparing Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie even easier!
How can I prevent the meringue from shrinking?
To avoid shrinkage, spread the meringue all the way to the crust edges, sealing it completely. This technique creates a barrier that helps maintain the volume of the meringue during baking.
Can you suggest a complementary dessert?
If you love citrusy desserts, try making a delightful lemon blueberry tart. The combination of flavors pairs beautifully with the classic taste of Grandma’s Lemon Meringue Pie and adds variety to your dessert table.