Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
2-3 tbsp ice water
For the Lemon Filling:
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
¼ tsp salt
1 ½ cups water
4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp lemon zest
¾ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Meringue:
4 large egg whites
¼ tsp cream of tartar
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Preparation:
Make the crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a food processor, pulse flour and salt together. Add the cold butter and pulse until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, pulsing until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough on a floured surface, then fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges and crimp. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden. Let cool.
Prepare the lemon filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually stir in water. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to boil. Remove from heat. Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the hot mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly, then pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for another 2 minutes while whisking. Remove from heat, then stir in butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Pour the lemon filling into the baked pie crust.
Make the meringue: In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract and beat until well combined.
Assemble and bake: Spread the meringue evenly over the lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges to the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Cool and serve: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing, so the filling sets. Serve chilled.
This Homemade Lemon Meringue Pie is the perfect balance of tangy lemon filling and sweet, fluffy meringue—great for any occasion