How to Bake an Easy Lemon Meringue Pie

Lemon meringue pie is a classic dessert that's perfect for any occasion. It's a delicious combination of tangy lemon filling and fluffy meringue topping, all nestled in a buttery pie crust. Here's how to make an easy lemon meringue pie at home:

Ingredients:

For the crust: - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced - 1/4 cup ice water

For the filling: - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup cornstarch - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 1/2 cups water - 4 egg yolks - 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice - 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the meringue: - 4 egg whites - 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar - 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. To make the crust, combine the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together in a ball. Flatten the ball into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

4. Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges and crimp as desired.

5. To make the filling, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the water until the mixture is smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.

6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gradually whisk in about 1 cup of the hot sugar mixture, then return the mixture to the saucepan.

7. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, for another 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes thick and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and combined.

8. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.

9. To make the meringue, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar in a large mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, a tablespoon at a time, and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

10. Spread the meringue over the filling, making sure to seal the edges. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create peaks and swirls on the surface of the meringue.

11. Bake the pie for 12-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown. Let the pie cool to room temperature before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade lemon meringue pie!