👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
4. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.
6. Prick the bottom with a fork, place parchment paper over it, and add pie weights or dried beans.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, remove weights, and bake another 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Let cool.

2. Make the Lemon Filling

1. In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, salt, and water over medium heat until thickened and bubbling.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a spoonful of the hot mixture to temper the yolks.
3. Gradually stir the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, zest, and butter.
5. Pour the filling into the baked pie crust.

3. Make the Meringue

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar on high speed until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until glossy stiff peaks form.
3. Beat in vanilla extract.

4. Assemble and Bake

1. Spread the meringue over the hot lemon filling, sealing the edges to prevent shrinking.
2. Use a spoon to create peaks for a decorative look.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

⏳ Cooling & Serving

• Let the pie cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
• Slice and enjoy this tangy, sweet, and creamy lemon meringue pie!

📌 Tips & Variations

✔️ Avoid a Weepy Meringue: Spread meringue while the filling is hot to help it adhere better.
✔️ Extra Creamy Filling: Add a bit of sweetened condensed milk for extra richness.
✔️ Torching Option: For a more dramatic look, use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue instead of baking.

✨ Enjoy this heavenly Lemon Meringue Pie—crisp crust, zesty lemon filling, and fluffy meringue perfection! 🍋🥧 Who’s ready to bake? 😍