Lemon Meringue Pie Bites Recipe

Looking for a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with a sweet meringue topping in a bite-sized treat? These Lemon Meringue Pie Bites are the perfect answer! Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they are ideal for parties, afternoon tea, or whenever you crave a citrusy pick-me-up.

Why You’ll Love These Lemon Meringue Pie Bites

1. Perfectly Portable: Mini-sized portions make them great for serving at events or as on-the-go snacks.
2. Bursting with Flavor: The zesty lemon filling and sweet, airy meringue create a perfect balance of flavors.
3. Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses pantry staples to create a gourmet dessert.
4. Elegant and Impressive: These bite-sized treats look as good as they taste, making them a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2–3 tbsp ice water

For the Lemon Filling:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 3 egg yolks (reserve whites for meringue)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• Pinch of salt

For the Meringue:

• 3 egg whites
• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour and sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together.
4. Roll out the dough and cut into small circles to fit your mini muffin tin. Press the dough into each cavity.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, zest, sugar, cornstarch, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
2. Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the hot mixture into the yolks while whisking.
3. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Whip Up the Meringue

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add sugar while beating until stiff peaks form.

Step 4: Assemble the Bites

1. Spoon the lemon filling into each baked crust.
2. Top with a dollop of meringue, ensuring it covers the edges to prevent shrinking.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until the meringue is golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the Lemon Meringue Pie Bites to cool completely before removing them from the tin. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Lemon Meringue Pie Bites

• Avoid Weeping Meringue: Spread the meringue over warm lemon filling to help it adhere better.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the crust and filling in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.
• Customization: Use lime or orange juice for a twist on the classic lemon flavor.

These Lemon Meringue Pie Bites are a delightful combination of tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors in a convenient mini form. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to impress your family and friends!

Serving and Storage Tips for Lemon Meringue Pie Bites

To ensure your Lemon Meringue Pie Bites are as delightful when served as they are fresh out of the oven, follow these handy tips for serving and storage.

Serving Tips

1. Chill Before Serving:
   After baking, allow the bites to cool completely. For an extra refreshing touch, chill them in the fridge for 1–2 hours before serving.
2. Garnish for Elegance:
   Add a small twist of lemon zest or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the meringue for a polished presentation.
3. Pair with Beverages:
   Serve these bites with tea, coffee, or a sparkling lemonade to complement their citrusy flavor.
4. Perfect for Buffets:
   Arrange the bites on a tiered dessert tray for an elegant display at parties or events.

Storage Tips

In the Refrigerator

• How to Store: Place the bites in an airtight container in a single layer to prevent the meringue from sticking to the lid.
• Shelf Life: These bites stay fresh for up to 2 days when refrigerated. However, they are best enjoyed within 24 hours to maintain their texture and flavor.

In the Freezer

• Freezing Not Recommended: The delicate meringue doesn’t freeze well as it can become sticky and lose its airy texture upon thawing. It’s better to make them fresh when possible.

Room Temperature (Short-Term)

• For Immediate Consumption: If serving the same day, you can keep the bites at room temperature for up to 4 hours in a cool, dry area.

Tips for Best Results

1. Prevent Soggy Crusts:
   Avoid overfilling with lemon curd, and ensure the crusts are fully baked to prevent sogginess during storage.
2. Separate Layers:
   If stacking is necessary, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to protect the meringue.
3. Re-Crisp the Crust:
   If stored bites seem soft, place them in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 3–5 minutes to restore their crispness.

By following these serving and storage tips, your Lemon Meringue Pie Bites will stay as delicious as the moment they were baked!

1. Can I make Lemon Meringue Pie Bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust and lemon filling a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake with the meringue just before serving for the freshest results.

2. How do I prevent the meringue from weeping?
To avoid meringue weeping, spread it over the warm lemon filling immediately after cooking. This helps seal the layers and reduces the chance of moisture forming. Also, ensure you bake the meringue long enough for it to set properly.

3. Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of lemon?
Absolutely! Lime or orange juice works well for a twist on the traditional recipe, though the sweetness level may need slight adjustment depending on the fruit’s tartness.

4. How can I ensure the crust stays crisp?
Bake the crust fully before adding the filling, and avoid overloading with lemon curd. If you’re serving later, store the assembled bites in the fridge and consume within 24 hours to maintain their crispness.

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