How to Make Lemon Berry Meringue Pie

When it comes to desserts that combine tangy flavors with a touch of sweetness, Lemon Berry Meringue Pie stands out as a delightful choice. This dessert features a zesty lemon filling complemented by a medley of fresh berries and topped with a fluffy, golden meringue. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, this pie is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

The combination of tart lemon and sweet berries creates a balanced flavor profile, while the meringue adds a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and yields impressive results. Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful pie in your own kitchen!

Ingredients for Lemon Berry Meringue Pie

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Berry Topping:

• 1 cup mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the Meringue:

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

How to Make Lemon Berry Meringue Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid adding too much water.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Pie Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the dough to the pan, trimming any excess and crimping the edges.
3. Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes.
4. Remove the parchment paper and weights, then bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, lemon juice, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to boil. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and lemon zest until smooth. Allow the filling to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Berry Topping

1. In a small bowl, toss the mixed berries with sugar. Set aside to let the berries release their juices.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

1. Spread the lemon filling evenly over the cooled pie crust.
2. Spoon the berry mixture over the lemon filling, distributing it evenly.

Step 6: Make the Meringue

1. In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Spread the meringue over the pie, sealing it to the edges of the crust and creating peaks with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the pie for 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.

About the Main Ingredients

Pie Crust: The pie crust is a fundamental component of any pie, providing a buttery, flaky base. Using cold butter and minimal handling ensures that the crust remains tender and crisp. The addition of a small amount of sugar enhances the flavor.

Lemon Filling: The lemon filling is the heart of this pie, offering a tangy and refreshing flavor. The combination of lemon juice and zest brings brightness, while the cornstarch helps thicken the filling to the perfect consistency.

Mixed Berries: The berry topping adds a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color. Choosing a mix of berries provides a balanced flavor and texture contrast to the lemon filling.

Meringue: The meringue topping adds a light and airy texture that contrasts with the creamy lemon filling. Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form ensures that the meringue holds its shape and becomes beautifully golden during baking.

This Lemon Berry Meringue Pie is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe is a perfect choice. Enjoy every delicious bite!