Ultimate Guide to Making the Best Jello Lemon Pudding Meringue Pie Recipe
Guide or Summary：Ingredients for Jello Lemon Pudding Meringue Pie RecipePreparing the Pie CrustMaking the Jello Lemon Pudding FillingPreparing the MeringueA……
Guide or Summary：
- Ingredients for Jello Lemon Pudding Meringue Pie Recipe
- Preparing the Pie Crust
- Making the Jello Lemon Pudding Filling
- Preparing the Meringue
- Assembling the Pie
- Baking the Pie
- Serving and Storing
- Tips for Success
When it comes to delightful desserts, few can compete with the tangy sweetness and creamy texture of a Jello Lemon Pudding Meringue Pie. This dessert is a classic favorite that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with the smoothness of pudding and the light, fluffy texture of meringue. If you're looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delicious treat, this ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the best Jello Lemon Pudding Meringue Pie Recipe.
Ingredients for Jello Lemon Pudding Meringue Pie Recipe
To start, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or make your own if you prefer)
- 1 package of Jello lemon pudding mix
- 2 cups of cold milk
- 3 large eggs (separated into yolks and whites)
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparing the Pie Crust
If you're using a pre-made pie crust, follow the package instructions for pre-baking. If you're making your own, roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges. Use a fork to prick the bottom and sides of the crust to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Pre-bake the crust in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes or until it's lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Making the Jello Lemon Pudding Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the Jello lemon pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a full boil. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Next, separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks and gradually add a small amount of the hot pudding mixture to temper the yolks. Once tempered, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining pudding. Return to the heat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Preparing the Meringue
In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat on high speed. Add the vanilla extract and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Assembling the Pie
Pour the cooled lemon pudding mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Spoon the meringue over the pudding, making sure to spread it all the way to the edges of the crust to seal in the filling. Use the back of a spoon to create decorative peaks and swirls in the meringue.
Baking the Pie
Bake the pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Once the meringue is beautifully browned, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
Serving and Storing
For the best flavor and texture, allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving. This will give the pudding time to set and the meringue to firm up. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to use fresh eggs for the meringue, as older eggs may not whip up as well.
- When spreading the meringue, ensure it touches the edges of the crust to prevent it from shrinking during baking.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the pudding mixture.
By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well on your way to creating a show-stopping Jello Lemon Pudding Meringue Pie that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Enjoy!