Timeless Lemon Meringue Delight

Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 8

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup ice water

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup cornstarch

1 cup water

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

3 large egg yolks

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon lemon zest

3 large egg whites

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cut in 1/2 cup chilled butter until crumbly. Stir in 1/4 cup ice water gradually until dough forms. Roll out and fit into a 9-inch pie pan. Prick with a fork and bake for 15 minutes. Cool.

3. For the filling, whisk 1 cup sugar, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 1 cup water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thick. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and butter. Whisk a little of the hot mixture into 3 egg yolks, then return to the saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Pour into baked crust.

4. For meringue, beat 3 egg whites and 1/4 tsp cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Spread over filling, sealing edges to crust.

5. Bake 10-12 minutes until meringue is golden. Cool at room temperature.