Description
Delectable Lemon Meringue Pie Bites showcase zesty citrus flavors in miniature dessert form. Crisp pastry shells cradle tangy lemon curd, topped with torched meringue peaks that will delight any palate.
Ingredients
- 1 package (15 count) mini phyllo shells, pre-baked
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 large egg whites, at room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsps cornstarch
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar
Instructions
- Lemon Filling Preparation: Whisk sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan, gradually adding water until achieving a smooth consistency, then heat over medium temperature while stirring continuously until thickened and bubbling.
- Egg Integration: Temper egg yolks by slowly introducing hot liquid, then reincorporate into the saucepan, cooking until the mixture returns to a gentle boil, ensuring a rich, creamy texture.
- Flavor Enhancement: Remove from heat and fold in lemon juice, zest, and butter, stirring until the filling becomes glossy and well-incorporated, then allow to cool slightly.
- Shell Filling: Arrange pre-baked phyllo shells on a baking sheet and carefully spoon the lemon filling into each, leaving a small margin at the top for meringue.
- Meringue Creation: Whip egg whites in a clean bowl until frothy, add cream of tartar, and continue beating until soft peaks form, then gradually incorporate sugar, whipping on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks develop.
- Topping and Browning: Top each filled shell with a generous meringue dollop, ensuring complete edge coverage, then position under the broiler or use a kitchen torch to achieve a golden-brown finish.
- Serving: Allow the Lemon Meringue Pie Bites to cool momentarily, then serve immediately or store in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Notes
Prevent Lumpy Filling: Whisk constantly while heating to ensure a smooth, lump-free lemon custard base and maintain medium heat for even thickening.
Control Meringue Stability: Use room temperature egg whites and completely clean, dry equipment to achieve maximum volume and glossy, stiff peaks that won’t deflate.
Avoid Weeping Meringue: Spread meringue immediately after preparing, ensuring it touches the edges of the filling to create a seal that prevents liquid separation and maintains a crisp texture.
Master Browning Technique: Watch broiler or torch carefully during final browning stage, rotating baking sheet if needed to achieve uniform golden color without burning the delicate meringue topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 94
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 2.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Cholesterol: 37 mg