I’ve been making Eagle Brand lemon meringue pie for years, and it’s a staple in our household. The recipe is straightforward, and the results are always impressive. The first time I made it, I was hooked – the combination of the tangy lemon filling and the fluffy meringue topping is a match made in heaven.
My kids love helping me make the meringue, and they always get a kick out of watching it transform from a soft, gooey mass to a crispy, golden-brown crown. This pie is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a special dinner or just a Tuesday night treat. Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other desserts, thanks to the use of real lemons and no artificial flavorings or preservatives.
I like to serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra-special touch. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different variations – adding a splash of vanilla extract or using different types of citrus zest – but the original recipe remains my go-to. It’s just so easy to make and always impresses our guests.
My family loves when I make this pie for dessert after dinner – it’s like a little piece of sunshine on a plate. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients and not overmixing the filling – you want it to stay smooth and creamy. With these tips in mind, you’ll be making this pie like a pro in no time!
I’ve even started experimenting with different flavor combinations – like using lime instead of lemon or adding a pinch of cinnamon to give it an extra depth of flavor.
Eagle Brand Lemon Meringue Pie
4.7 from 1079 votes
A classic lemon meringue pie made with sweetened condensed milk for a creamy, tangy filling. Topped with a fluffy meringue and baked until golden brown, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.
1 (14-ounce) can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
3 large egg yolks
1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the Meringue
3 large egg whites, at room temperature
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
👨🍳Directions
1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and melted butter; stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
3Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass.
4Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes, until it is lightly golden and set.
5Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before adding the filling.
6In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, egg yolks, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth and thick, about 2 minutes.
7Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
8In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.
9Gradually add the 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form and the sugar is dissolved, about 4 to 5 minutes; beat in the vanilla extract.
10Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges to the crust to prevent shrinking.
11Use the back of a spoon to create decorative peaks.
12Bake the pie at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes, until the meringue is golden brown and the filling is set.
13Cool the pie on a wire rack for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the filling to firm up.
For best results, use fresh lemon juice and zest. Make sure the meringue touches the crust edges to prevent weeping. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Watch Video Of How Eagle Brand Lemon Meringue Pie Works
This eagle brand lemon meringue pie is always a good idea for any occasion because it is simple to make and tastes incredible. It works well for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners because everyone loves the combination of tart lemon and sweet meringue.
I appreciate that I can make it with basic ingredients and it always comes out looking beautiful on the table. For storage, keep the pie in the refrigerator covered loosely with plastic wrap for up to three days.
To reheat, let slices sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes or warm them gently in a low oven for a few minutes. Serve it chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries for extra color.
This recipe is a keeper that I turn to again and again.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Eagle Brand Lemon Meringue Pie
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemons give a brighter, more natural flavor. Bottled juice often has preservatives that can affect the taste slightly. For the best results, use fresh lemons and zest them too for extra lemon aroma.
2. How do I prevent the meringue from weeping or shrinking?
Make sure the meringue touches the crust edge completely to seal the pie. Also, spread the meringue over the filling while it is still warm. Bake until the meringue is set and golden, then cool the pie slowly at room temperature before refrigerating.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this pie a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator covered loosely with plastic wrap. The meringue may soften slightly, but it will still taste delicious. Do not freeze the pie because the texture will change.
4. Why did my lemon filling turn out runny?
The filling may be runny if it was not cooked long enough. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Also, make sure you use the full can of sweetened condensed milk.
5. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely, a store-bought graham cracker or pastry crust works fine. Just pre-bake the crust according to package directions before adding the filling. This saves time and still gives a great result.
6. How should I store leftover lemon meringue pie?
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The meringue may weep a little, but it will still be safe to eat. Do not leave the pie out at room temperature for more than 2 hours due to the eggs in the meringue and filling.
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