Here’s a list of all the ingredients for a **Heavenly Lemon Pie with Meringue Crust**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and keywords for baking enthusiasts and dessert lovers:
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### **Ingredients for Heavenly Lemon Pie with Meringue Crust**
#### **For the Meringue Crust:**
- **4 large egg whites** (room temperature, for a fluffy meringue base)
- **1 cup granulated sugar** (for sweetness and structure)
- **1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar** (to stabilize the meringue)
- **1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract** (for added flavor)
- **1/4 teaspoon salt** (to enhance the sweetness)
#### **For the Lemon Filling:**
- **1 cup fresh lemon juice** (for a tangy, citrusy flavor)
- **1 tablespoon lemon zest** (to intensify the lemon taste)
- **1 cup granulated sugar** (to balance the tartness)
- **4 large egg yolks** (for a rich, creamy texture)
- **1/4 cup unsalted butter** (softened, for smoothness)
- **1/4 cup cornstarch** (to thicken the filling)
- **1 cup water** (to create the perfect consistency)
- **1/4 teaspoon salt** (to enhance flavors)
#### **For the Meringue Topping:**
- **4 large egg whites** (room temperature, for a light and airy topping)
- **1/2 cup granulated sugar** (for sweetness and structure)
- **1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar** (to stabilize the meringue)
- **1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract** (for a hint of flavor)
#### **Optional Garnish:**
- **Lemon slices** (for a fresh, decorative touch)
- **Fresh mint leaves** (to add a pop of color and freshness)
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### **SEO Keywords to Include in Your Recipe Post:**
- Heavenly lemon pie
- Meringue crust recipe
- Lemon meringue pie
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- Homemade lemon dessert
- Tangy lemon filling
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This ingredient list is designed to help you create a **show-stopping lemon pie** while optimizing for search engines to attract baking enthusiasts and dessert lovers!
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Steps
# Heavenly Lemon Pie with Meringue Crust: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you're craving a tangy, sweet, and utterly divine dessert, this **heavenly lemon pie with meringue crust** is the perfect treat. With its zesty lemon filling, fluffy meringue topping, and crisp crust, this pie is a showstopper for any occasion. Follow these detailed steps to create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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## **Ingredients**
### For the Meringue Crust:
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
### For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
### For the Meringue Topping:
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Meringue Crust**
1. Preheat your oven to **275°F (135°C)** and line a pie dish with parchment paper.
2. In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until frothy. Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while beating on high speed. Mix until stiff, glossy peaks form. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Spread the meringue evenly into the pie dish, forming a crust shape with slightly raised edges.
5. Bake for **1 hour**, then turn off the oven and let the crust cool completely inside.
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### **2. Make the Lemon Filling**
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Gradually add the water, stirring until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot sugar mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them.
4. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and butter until smooth. Let the filling cool slightly.
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### **3. Assemble the Pie**
1. Pour the lemon filling into the cooled meringue crust, spreading it evenly.
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### **4. Prepare the Meringue Topping**
1. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges to prevent shrinking. Use a spatula to create decorative peaks.
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### **5. Bake and Serve**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Bake the pie for **10-12 minutes**, or until the meringue is golden brown.
3. Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
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## **Tips for Success**
- Use **fresh lemon juice** for the brightest flavor.
- Ensure your bowl and beaters are completely clean and grease-free when making meringue.
- For a **gluten-free dessert**, this pie is naturally gluten-free thanks to the meringue crust.
This **heavenly lemon pie with meringue crust** is a delightful combination of tangy, sweet, and airy textures. Perfect for summer gatherings or holiday feasts, this pie is sure to impress. Enjoy!