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lemon custard pie recipe

Lemon Custard Meringue Pie with Smooth Filling

Avatar photoNina Miller
A delicious lemon custard meringue pie with a smooth filling, perfect for any dessert lover.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch pie pan greased
  • 1 Electric Mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Crust

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter chilled
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2-3 tbsp cold water

Custard Filling

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 3 large egg yolks beaten
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tsp lemon zest

Meringue Topping

  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 6 tbsp sugar

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until dough forms. Roll out and fit into a 9-inch pie pan. Chill for 30 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly.
  • Remove from heat. Stir in butter and lemon zest. Gradually stir in beaten egg yolks, return to heat, and cook until thickened. Pour into the prepared crust.
  • Beat egg whites and cream of tartar at high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
  • Spread meringue over hot filling, sealing edges to crust to prevent shrinking.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until meringue is golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour.
  • Slice and serve the pie chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
  • Cover loosely and store in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother custard. Ingredient Substitutions: Use coconut sugar for a different sweetness profile. How to Serve: Best served chilled with a lemon slice for garnish. Storage & Freshness: Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the crust a day in advance to save time.
Keyword easy lemon pie, lemon custard pie, lemon meringue pie