Lemon Meringue Pie with Flaky Crust

Introduction

Lemon Meringue Pie with Flaky Crust is one of those desserts that never fails to impress. With its perfect balance of tangy lemon filling, airy cloud-like meringue, and buttery golden crust, it’s a dessert that delivers both elegance and comfort. The vibrant citrusy flavor cuts beautifully through the sweetness, making it refreshing yet indulgent at the same time.

This pie has a long-standing place in classic baking traditions, often served at spring gatherings, holidays, and celebrations. It’s a showstopper that instantly brightens the table with its golden peaks of meringue and sunshine-yellow filling. If you’re looking for a dessert that feels both nostalgic and timeless, this is it.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy. The buttery, flaky crust adds a comforting base, while the lemon filling bursts with citrusy freshness that instantly brightens your palate. On top of that, the cloud-like meringue not only makes the pie look elegant with its golden peaks but also provides a light, airy sweetness that balances the tangy lemon beautifully.

This dessert always feels special—whether served at a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or just as a treat for yourself. It has that nostalgic, homemade charm while still being impressive enough to wow guests. Every slice feels like a little piece of sunshine, making it one of those recipes I’ll never get tired of baking (or eating!).

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This pie is a must-try because it delivers the ultimate flavor contrast—a buttery, flaky crust, a silky lemon custard that’s both tangy and refreshing, and a cloud of sweet meringue that melts in your mouth. It’s not just a dessert, it’s an experience of textures and flavors working together in harmony.

It’s also a classic recipe that has stood the test of time, loved across generations for its bright flavor and elegant appearance. Whether you’re serving it at a spring brunch, a holiday dinner, or as a show-stopping finale to a dinner party, this pie never fails to impress.

Most importantly, making Lemon Meringue Pie with Flaky Crust at home gives you the joy of baking something truly special. The satisfaction of watching the meringue peaks turn golden in the oven is worth every step—and the first bite will prove why this pie is a timeless favorite.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking/Baking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Cooling/Chilling Time: 2–3 hours
• Total Time: About 3.5–4 hours (including cooling)

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories per serving: ~380–420 kcal

(Calories may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)

Cuisine, Course & Method

• Cuisine: American, European-inspired classic
• Course: Dessert
• Cooking Method: Baking & stovetop custard

Ingredients

For the Flaky Pie Crust

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3–4 tbsp ice water

For the Lemon Filling

• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 lemons (zested and juiced, about 1/2 cup juice)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 large egg yolks (beaten)

For the Meringue Topping

• 4 large egg whites
• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Flaky Crust

1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough just comes together.
4. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out dough, fit into a 9-inch pie pan, trim edges, and prick with a fork.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes or until lightly golden. Cool.

2. Make the Lemon Filling

1. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually stir in water, lemon juice, and zest.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbling.
4. Stir in butter.
5. Temper the egg yolks by whisking a little hot mixture into them, then return yolks to saucepan.
6. Cook 2 minutes more, stirring. Remove from heat and pour filling into prepared crust.

3. Prepare the Meringue

1. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until stiff, glossy peaks form.
3. Beat in vanilla extract.

4. Assemble the Pie

1. Spread meringue over hot lemon filling, ensuring it seals to the crust edges.
2. Use a spatula to create swirls or peaks.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until meringue is golden brown.
4. Cool completely at room temperature, then chill 2–3 hours before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve chilled, in neat slices, with extra lemon zest sprinkled on top.
• Pairs beautifully with hot tea, iced coffee, or a light sparkling wine.

Tips & Variations

• Extra flavor: Add a pinch of vanilla or almond extract to the meringue.
• Crust alternative: Use a graham cracker or digestive biscuit base instead of pastry for a quicker version.
• Tropical twist: Replace lemon with lime or passionfruit for a new flavor profile.
• Prevent weeping meringue: Always spread meringue over hot filling to prevent separation.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as meringue doesn’t freeze well.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie dish
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Saucepan & whisk
• Electric mixer for meringue

Conclusion

Lemon Meringue Pie with Flaky Crust is a timeless dessert that combines refreshing citrus, creamy filling, and fluffy meringue in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that delights guests, teaches key baking skills, and creates lasting memories. Elegant yet approachable, it’s a dessert you’ll treasure in your recipe collection.