Lemon Meringue Pie is a classic dessert revered for its blend of sweet and tangy flavors. Mary Berry offers her own version of this pie, which is not only delicious but also easy to make.
The pie has three main components: a crisp pastry base, a rich lemon filling, and a fluffy meringue topping. It’s a great option for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Ahead, you’ll learn to combine the right balance of flavors and textures to create a Lemon Meringue Pie that stands out. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe won’t disappoint you.
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Difficulty: Medium
- Servings: 8
Ingredients
To make the pastry:
- 225g (8 oz) plain flour
- 175g (6 oz) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 45g (1.5 oz) icing sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
For the lemon filling:
- 2 large lemons, zest and juice
- 65g (2.3 oz) cornflour
- 250g (9 oz) caster sugar
- 6 large egg yolks (reserve the whites for the meringue)
- 50g (1.8 oz) unsalted butter
For the meringue:
- 4 large egg whites
- 225g (8 oz) caster sugar
- 2 tsp cornflour
Also Read: How to Make Mary Berry’s Lemon Curd
Steps to Make Mary Berry Lemon Meringue Pie
Step 1. Prep Your Equipment and Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F, gas mark 4).
- Gather your ingredients: lemons, sugar, butter, flour, and eggs.
Step 2. Make the Pastry
- In a bowl, mix flour and butter to form a breadcrumb texture. Add water gradually until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and line a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the base with a fork.
- Bake blind for 15 minutes, then remove beans and bake for another 5 minutes.
Step 3. Prepare the Lemon Filling
- In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, zest, sugar, and butter. Heat gently until melted.
- Beat the egg yolks in a bowl. Pour the lemon mixture over the yolks, stirring continuously.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and stir over low heat until thickened. Pour into the pastry case.
Step 4. Make the Meringue
- Whisk egg whites in a clean bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Spoon or pipe the meringue over the lemon filling, covering completely.
Step 5. Bake the Pie
- Lower the oven temperature to 150°C (300°F, gas mark 2).
- Bake the pie for 25 minutes, or until the meringue is golden and crisp.
Step 6. Cool and Serve
- Allow the pie to cool before serving to ensure the filling sets properly.
Why You’ll Love Mary Berry’s Lemon Meringue Pie
- Perfect Balance of Flavors. The sharpness of the lemon curd contrasts beautifully with the sweet meringue, creating a dessert that’s neither too tart nor overly sweet.
- Texture Contrast. From the crisp pastry base to the smooth lemon filling and the fluffy meringue on top, each bite offers a delightful variety of textures.
- Impressive Yet Achievable. While it looks and tastes sophisticated, Mary Berry’s guidance makes this pie surprisingly manageable, even for those new to baking.
- Versatile Dessert. Ideal for any occasion, from casual family meals to festive gatherings, it’s a dessert that always feels special.
- A Crowd-Pleaser. Its universally appealing flavors and stunning presentation make it a hit with guests every time.
Pairing Suggestions (Optional)
Side Dishes
While Lemon Meringue Pie stands beautifully on its own as a dessert, you can consider pairing it with a light, refreshing side dish if it’s part of a larger meal. A simple berry salad, gently tossed with a splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of sugar, can complement the pie’s citrus notes.
Drink Pairings
The lemon meringue pie pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade or an iced tea can enhance the pie’s lemon flavor. If you prefer something with alcohol, a sweet Riesling or a Prosecco adds a festive touch, balancing the pie’s sweetness with their bubbly and crisp nature.
Complementary Desserts
If you’re serving a dessert spread, consider desserts that offer a contrast in flavor and texture to the Lemon Meringue Pie. Chocolate mousse or a rich chocolate cake provides a deep, luxurious flavor that contrasts well with the lightness of the pie. Alternatively, a vanilla bean ice cream offers a cool, creamy texture that pairs beautifully, making each bite of pie even more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Lemon Meringue Pie is one of my favorite desserts. Its perfect balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion, from a family dinner to a celebratory feast. Whether you pair it with a refreshing drink, a side of fresh berries, or enjoy it as dessert on its own, this lemon meringue pie is sure to impress and satisfy your family or guests.