Description
Lemon Angel Pie is a delightful vintage dessert featuring a crisp and airy meringue crust filled with tangy, creamy lemon curd and topped with fluffy whipped cream. This classic American pie offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it an irresistible treat for lemon lovers and a refreshing way to conclude any meal.
Ingredients
Meringue Crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Lemon Filling
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Meringue: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they become foamy. Add cream of tartar, salt, and vanilla extract, then gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks.
- Incorporate Cornstarch and Shape Crust: Gently fold the cornstarch into the meringue mixture to help stabilize it. Spread the meringue evenly into a well-greased 9-inch pie plate, forming the crust along the bottom and up the sides for a stable base.
- Bake the Meringue Crust: Bake the meringue crust in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until it is dry and lightly golden. Once baked, turn off the oven and let the crust cool inside with the oven door slightly ajar to prevent cracking.
- Prepare Lemon Filling: In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
- Make Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light, fluffy topping.
- Combine Filling and Whipped Cream: Fold half of the whipped cream gently into the cooled lemon curd to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining whipped cream to maintain a smooth, airy texture.
- Assemble the Pie: Spoon the combined lemon filling and whipped cream into the cooled meringue crust, spreading evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly. Before serving, optionally garnish with extra whipped cream or lemon zest for added visual appeal and flavor.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for maximum meringue volume and stability.
- Ensure no egg yolk contaminates the whites to achieve stiff peaks.
- The pie is best served chilled and should be consumed within 1 to 2 days for optimal freshness.