Mini Lemon Meringue Pie

If you love the zingy, refreshing flavor of lemon and the light, fluffy sweetness of meringue, then this Mini Lemon Meringue Pie recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine biting into a crisp, buttery crust filled with smooth and tangy lemon curd, topped off with a golden, pillowy meringue that’s perfectly toasted. Trust me, these little pies are a game-changer, perfect for any occasion or as a sweet treat after dinner. They’re bite-sized, but packed with all the flavor and love of the classic version. Once you make these, you might just find yourself making them for every gathering!

Why You’ll Love Mini Lemon Meringue Pie

This isn’t just any dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in a way that’ll make everyone ask for the recipe. Here’s why these mini pies are a hit:

• Versatile: These mini pies are perfect for so many occasions—whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a picnic with friends, or a holiday treat. You can even make them in advance and have them ready for a last-minute gathering.
• Budget-Friendly: With ingredients you probably already have on hand, you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy these sweet little pies.
• Quick and Easy: Don’t be intimidated—this recipe may sound fancy, but it’s pretty easy to put together. With a few simple steps, you’ll be a lemon meringue pro in no time!
• Customizable: Love your lemon extra tangy? Feel free to tweak the zest or juice to your taste. You can also play with the sweetness of the meringue—go as bold or subtle as you’d like.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These mini pies are always a crowd-pleaser. With their combination of creamy lemon filling and fluffy meringue, there’s something for everyone. Kids and adults alike will be fighting over the last one!

Ingredients in Mini Lemon Meringue Pie

These mini pies are made with just a few simple ingredients, but they come together in the most magical way. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pie Crust: The base of every pie! A buttery, flaky crust that crisps up perfectly in the oven. You can use pre-made crust or make your own.
• Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemons are key! They give the filling its bright, tangy flavor and aroma.
• Egg Yolks: The rich, creamy texture that brings the lemon curd to life.
• Sugar: To balance out the tartness of the lemon with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Butter: Adds a silky richness to the lemon filling.
• Egg Whites: For the meringue, these whip up into a light, airy texture that’s perfectly toasted.
• Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the lemon filling, ensuring it’s not too runny.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into making these mini lemon meringue pies, step by step. You’re going to love how easy it is!

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crust will bake up golden and crisp, and that your pies cook evenly.

Prepare the Crusts

If you’re using store-bought mini pie crusts, follow the instructions on the packaging. If you’re making your own, roll out the dough and cut it into circles that will fit your mini tart pans. Press the dough into the pans, and blind bake the crusts for about 10-12 minutes or until golden. This will prevent the crust from getting soggy once you add the filling.

Make the Lemon Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s thickened, remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth. Pour this luscious lemon filling into the pre-baked mini crusts and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Meringue

Whip the egg whites in a clean bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. The meringue should be glossy and smooth.

Assemble and Bake

Spoon the meringue on top of the lemon filling, spreading it all the way to the edges of the crust to seal it in. Use a spatula to create peaks in the meringue. Bake the pies in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let your mini lemon meringue pies cool completely before serving. This will help the filling set and make them easier to enjoy. Slice them up, serve, and watch as your guests fall in love with every bite!

How to Serve Mini Lemon Meringue Pie

These mini pies are perfect for any occasion and pair beautifully with a few simple sides:

• Fresh Fruit: A light fruit salad with berries or kiwi is the perfect fresh contrast to the richness of the pie.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream will take these mini pies to the next level of decadence.
• Tea or Coffee: For a truly indulgent experience, enjoy with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee.

Additional Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can make the lemon filling and meringue ahead of time. Just assemble the pies and bake them just before serving.
• Gluten-Free Option: You can use gluten-free pie crusts if you need a gluten-free version of this recipe.
• Store Leftovers: Store any leftover pies in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’re best eaten fresh, but they’ll keep in the fridge for a couple of days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute egg yolks with something else?

A1: If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can try using a plant-based egg replacer. The texture might differ, but the flavor will still be delicious!

Q2: Can I use store-bought lemon curd?

A2: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought lemon curd to make these mini pies even quicker.

Q3: How do I store leftover pies?

A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before refrigerating.

Q4: Can I freeze mini lemon meringue pies?

A4: It’s best to enjoy these pies fresh, but you can freeze them before baking the meringue. Just freeze the filled pies, then add and bake the meringue when ready to serve.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?

A5: Of course! You can easily double the ingredients and make a bigger batch. Just make sure you have enough mini tart pans.

Q6: How do I get perfect meringue?

A6: To get the perfect meringue, make sure your egg whites are at room temperature and that your bowl and whisk are clean. Be patient while whipping until those stiff peaks form!

Conclusion

These Mini Lemon Meringue Pies are everything you could want in a dessert: tangy, sweet, and light as air. They’re the perfect little indulgence, whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests. The balance of the buttery crust, luscious lemon filling, and fluffy meringue is absolutely divine, and I just know you’re going to fall head over heels for them. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to make some

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