Lemon Meringue Pie Bars Recipe

Lemon Meringue Pie Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• For the Lemon Filling:
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 eggs
  • 2/3 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
• For the Meringue:
  • 4 egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/2 cup sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring it is evenly spread.
   • Bake for 18-20 minutes until just golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Lemon Filling:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour.
   • Beat in the eggs, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
   • Pour this mixture over the baked crust.
   • Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
3. Prepare the Meringue:
   • In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Top with Meringue:
   • Spread the meringue over the hot lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges.
   • Use the back of a spoon to create peaks across the meringue.
5. Bake the Meringue:
   • Return to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown on the tips.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
   • Once cool, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into bars.
   • Optionally, use a kitchen torch to further brown the meringue before serving for an extra touch of elegance.

These Lemon Meringue Pie Bars offer a fantastic balance of tart and sweet, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making this delightful dessert! If you have any more requests or need adjustments to the recipe, feel free to ask.