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Lemon Meringue Bars RECIPE

Lemon Meringue Pie Bars
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Lemon Meringue Bars recipe. Easy, perfect dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 stick unsalted butter, very cold
  • all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • pinch of salt
  • 2 lemons (for zest)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for curd)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 large whole eggs
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for curd)
  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, a quarter cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in a stick of very cold, unsalted butter into small pieces. Work quickly until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  • While the crust is baking, in a medium saucepan, whisk together half a cup of granulated sugar, fresh lemon zest (from about two lemons), and a tablespoon of cornstarch. Gradually whisk in half a cup of fresh lemon juice, ensuring no lumps remain.
  • Add two large whole eggs and four large egg yolks to the mixture, whisking until everything is thoroughly combined. Continue to whisk constantly over medium-low heat. The mixture will slowly thicken, taking about 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for it to coat the back of a spoon – it should be thick enough that if you draw a line with your finger, it holds its shape. Don’t let it boil vigorously!
  • Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in another tablespoon of unsalted butter until melted and smooth.
  • Pour the hot lemon curd evenly over the warm shortbread crust. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until completely set. This chilling step is crucial for the curd to firm up properly before the meringue goes on.
  • Once your lemon layer is completely chilled and set, in a very clean, dry bowl, combine four large egg whites, half a cup of granulated sugar, and a quarter teaspoon of cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, whisk on medium-low speed until the sugar begins to dissolve and the mixture is foamy. Increase the speed to medium-high and continue to beat until soft peaks form. Add half a teaspoon of vanilla extract, then continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. The meringue should be thick and hold its shape beautifully when the whisk is lifted. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
  • Immediately dollop the meringue over the chilled lemon layer, spreading it gently to the edges of the pan, making sure it touches the crust all around to prevent shrinking. Create beautiful swirls and peaks with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
  • To toast the meringue, use a kitchen torch with a gentle, sweeping motion until the peaks turn a gorgeous golden brown. Alternatively, you can place the pan back into the oven under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes, watching very carefully as it browns quickly.
  • Once toasted, let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then chill for at least another hour before slicing. This extra chill time ensures clean, beautiful cuts and a perfectly set dessert.

Notes

Oh, get ready to experience a slice of sunshine in bar form! These Lemon Meringue Pie Bars are the quintessential dessert for anyone who adores that irresistible balance of sweet and tangy. Imagine a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust, topped with a zesty, vibrantly flavored lemon curd that’s both smooth and creamy, and then crowned with a cloud of perfectly toasted, fluffy meringue. Each bite offers a delightful symphony of textures and flavors – the crumbly crunch, the silky tartness, and the sweet, airy finish. They’re a showstopper dessert that’s surprisingly approachable to make, perfect for sharing and guaranteed to bring smiles to every face.

Find it online: https://homecookstudio.com/lemon-meringue-pie-bars-recipe/