Lemon meringue pie bites are a delightful twist on the classic lemon meringue pie, offering all the delicious flavors in a bite-sized format. Here’s a recipe to make them:
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
For the Meringue:
- 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
For the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
For the Lemon Filling:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the lemon filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the filling is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
For the Meringue:
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Assemble the Pie Bites:
- Spoon dollops of the meringue mixture on top of the partially cooled lemon filling, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
- Use the back of a spoon to create peaks in the meringue.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the pie bites cool completely in the baking dish.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the pie out of the dish. Cut into bite-sized squares.
- Serve and enjoy these delicious lemon meringue pie bites!
These lemon meringue pie bites are perfect for parties, gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a sweet and tangy treat. Enjoy!