🍋 Lemon Meringue Pie 😍

Is there anything more beautiful than a homemade Lemon Meringue Pie? ❤️ This classic dessert features a flaky golden crust, a bright and tangy lemon filling, and a cloud of fluffy meringue toasted to perfection. Sweet, tart, and absolutely irresistible, it’s the perfect old-fashioned dessert for Sunday dinner or any special occasion! 🍰 Ingredients: For the crust: 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crustPie weights or dried beans for blind baking (optional)For the lemon filling: 1½ cups granulated sugar⅓ cup cornstarch¼ teaspoon salt1½ cups water½ cup fresh lemon juice2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest4 large egg yolks3 tablespoons unsalted butterFor the meringue: 4 large egg whites, at room temperature½ cup granulated sugar¼ teaspoon cream of tartar½ teaspoon vanilla extractMethod: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie crust according to its package or recipe instructions until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the water and lemon juice until smooth.Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly whisk a little of the hot lemon mixture into the yolks to temper them.Gradually pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until thick and glossy.Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and lemon zest until smooth. Pour the hot filling into the baked pie crust.To make the meringue, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Mix in the vanilla.Spread the meringue over the hot lemon filling, making sure it touches the crust around the edges to help prevent shrinking. Create decorative peaks with the back of a spoon.Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, until the meringue peaks are lightly golden.Cool the pie at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing for the cleanest pieces.Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy every sweet and tangy bite! 😋Tip: For the best results, spread the meringue over the filling while it is still hot, and make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of grease.