If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that balances tangy brightness with fluffy sweetness, you have to try this Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe. It’s one of those timeless desserts that brings sunshine to any table with its crisp homemade crust, velvety lemon filling bursting with fresh zest, and clouds of perfectly toasted meringue on top. Every bite dances between tart and sweet, soft and crunchy, making this pie a standout favorite for gatherings or a special treat to share with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a glass juicer with a whole lemon being squeezed, its bright yellow color contrasting with the clear glass. Around the juicer are three lemon halves with a soft texture, placed on a brown cutting board, which stands on a white marbled surface. To the right, a glass measuring cup contains a small strainer with lemon pulp and seeds inside. On the left side, a yellow and white checkered cloth adds a soft, fabric texture to the scene. The overall setting has bright, fresh colors with a clear view of the lemon juice extraction process. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe is surprisingly simple, using essential pantry ingredients that come together beautifully. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the richness of the egg yolks and butter to the bright pop of fresh lemon juice and zest, giving the pie its signature unforgettable flavor and texture.

Homemade Pie Crust: Provides a flaky, buttery base that supports the creamy filling perfectly.
5 large egg yolks: These add rich texture and color to the lemon curd filling, while the whites are reserved for the meringue.
1 and 1/3 cups water: Helps dissolve ingredients and cook the filling to silky perfection.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just right and later sweetens the meringue for that perfect balance.
1/3 cup cornstarch: Thickens the filling, giving it that smooth, custard-like consistency.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates the flavors and balances sweetness throughout the pie.
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice: The star of this dish, delivering fresh, bright citrus zing.
1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds an extra punch of lemon oil, amplifying the overall aroma and taste.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and richness to the lemon filling, rounding out the tartness beautifully.
5 large egg whites: Whipped to make the airy, cloud-like meringue topping.
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites to create stiff, glossy peaks in the meringue.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the meringue while helping it hold its structure.
1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor contrast in the meringue.

How to Make Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Blind Bake the Pie Crust

Starting with the pie crust is key because it needs time to chill and bake properly. I always recommend making the dough the night before so it’s perfectly chilled for rolling out. Blind baking the crust at 375°F on the lowest oven rack ensures a crisp and golden shell that won’t get soggy under the luscious lemon filling. Don’t forget to crimp or flute the edges for that classic homemade look!

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, salt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and water over medium heat. This mixture will look thin at first, but after about 6 minutes, you’ll see it thicken and gently bubble—this is the magic of a perfectly cooked curd. Then, gently temper the egg yolks by slowly whisking some of the hot lemon mixture into them to warm them up without scrambling. Once combined, pour the egg yolk mix back into the pan and cook until thick and bubbling. Remove from heat and stir in the butter to add velvety richness.

Step 3: Pour Filling into the Warm Crust

Spread the hot lemon filling into your partially baked pie crust while it’s still warm. This warm filling helps fuse with the meringue topping, preventing separation and creating a seamless slice. Set it aside as you prepare the crowning glory: the meringue.

Step 4: Whip the Meringue

Using a handheld or stand mixer, whisk the egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and salt while increasing speed to high, whipping until stiff, glossy peaks develop. Take your time here because a well-made meringue is the difference between a good pie and a stunning one. Spread it over the warm lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges so it sticks to the crust and prevents any weeping.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake the assembled pie at 350°F on the lowest oven rack for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the meringue’s color, tenting with foil if it browns too quickly. When it’s done, the meringue will have gorgeous, toasted peaks that contrast beautifully with the glossy lemon base. Let the pie cool for an hour at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours to set completely.

How to Serve Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe

A round pie in a clear glass pie dish sits on a white marbled texture. The pie has three visible layers: the bottom golden-brown crust with a rough edge, the middle lemon filling barely seen under the top layer, and a thick, fluffy white meringue layer on top with soft peaks and swirls lightly browned at the tips. Next to the pie, there are two lemon halves showing their bright yellow inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a little extra charm, sprinkle a bit of fresh lemon zest or finely chopped mint leaves on top after baking. Adding thin lemon slices on the side makes for a sophisticated presentation and hints at the zesty flavors within the pie. These garnishes enhance both the look and the fresh aroma of the finished dish.

Side Dishes

Serving this pie alongside a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a delightful creamy contrast, turning each bite into a decadent experience. A simple fruit salad featuring berries or kiwi can also complement the citrusy tang, balancing the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe into generous wedges and drizzling each piece with a homemade berry coulis or passion fruit glaze for an artistic flair. Using mini tart pans for individual servings allows guests to enjoy their own perfectly meringue-topped treats, making this classic dessert feel fun and personal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because the meringue topping is delicate, it’s best to store any leftover pie covered loosely with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. While it tastes best fresh on day one, the pie can keep for up to two days, though you may notice the meringue begins to soften and weep slightly over time.

Freezing

Freezing Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe is generally not recommended as the meringue can become watery and the crust soggy upon thawing. For best results, enjoy this pie fresh or refrigerate it instead of freezing.

Reheating

If you’d like to warm a slice, gently heat it in a low oven (around 275°F) for just a few minutes to avoid melting the meringue. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the meringue to deflate and separate.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade pie crust adds extra flavor and flakiness, a good-quality store-bought crust can save time and still deliver delicious results.

How do I prevent the meringue from weeping?

Spreading the meringue so it fully touches the crust edges helps seal the filling, reducing moisture escaping. Also, make sure to bake it until the meringue is set and glossy.

Why should I temper the egg yolks?

Tempering warms the egg yolks gradually, preventing them from cooking into lumps when added to the hot lemon mixture, which ensures a smooth filling.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

You can prepare the crust and filling earlier, but it’s best to add the meringue and bake close to serving time for peak freshness and texture.

What is the role of cream of tartar in the meringue?

Cream of tartar stabilizes the whipped egg whites, helping the meringue hold stiff peaks that don’t collapse quickly.

Final Thoughts

Enjoying a slice of this Classic Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe is like tasting sunshine on a plate. It’s fresh, comforting, and beautifully balanced, making it a dessert everyone will rave about. So, roll up your sleeves, dive into this recipe, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a truly unforgettable homemade pie experience!