Lemon Angel Pie: A Heavenly Dessert Experience
Introduction to Lemon Angel Pie
Lemon Angel Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience. Known for its fluffy meringue crust and creamy, tangy lemon filling, this pie offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that dessert lovers adore. Originating from traditional citrus desserts, Lemon Angel Pie has evolved into a favorite among both novice bakers and experienced chefs.
Detailed Recipe Breakdown
Ingredients List
To make Lemon Angel Pie, you will need:
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Preparing the Meringue Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. This is essential to creating the light and airy texture characteristic of a good meringue, as detailed on Wikipedia.
- Spread into the prepared pie plate to form the crust and bake for 25 minutes or until golden. Let cool completely.
Creating the Lemon Filling
- In a small saucepan, mix the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with cornstarch. Stir in water, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Once slightly cooled, beat in egg yolks and return to heat, stirring until thick. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Combining Components
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until it forms peaks. Fold into the cooled lemon mixture.
- Spoon into the meringue crust and chill for at least 4 hours or until set.
Health and Nutrition
Each serving of Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe provides about 290 kcal, making it a luxurious yet surprisingly light option. The key ingredients, such as lemon and egg whites, offer not only delightful flavors but also various health benefits like vitamin C and protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Lemon Angel Pie ahead of time? Yes, the pie can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated.
- What are some tips for the perfect meringue crust? Ensure your bowl and beaters are clean and dry to help the egg whites reach the perfect consistency.
Variations of Lemon Angel Pie
Exploring variations can add a delightful twist to the traditional recipe. Consider trying:
- Lemon meringue with an alternative crust such as a gluten-free option from Pinterest.
- Other citrus elements like orange zest can be added for a different flavor profile.
Lemon Angel Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
Description
Lemon Angel Pie combines a light and airy meringue crust with a creamy, tangy lemon filling. This dessert strikes a delightful balance between sweet and tart, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Meringue Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy, gradually add 1/2 cup sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread into a greased 9-inch pie plate and bake for 25 minutes. Cool completely.
- Make the Lemon Filling: Mix remaining sugar with cornstarch, water, lemon juice, and zest in a saucepan. Cook until thickened, then cool slightly before beating in egg yolks. Return to heat and thicken further. Cool completely.
- Assemble the Pie: Whip the cream to peaks, fold into lemon filling, and spoon into crust. Chill for at least 4 hours.
Notes
- Crust Tips: Ensure no grease is present in your mixing tools to achieve the perfect meringue.
- Filling Advice: For a smoother texture, strain the lemon zest out of the filling before adding the egg yolks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 37g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 4g