Lemon And Pear Meringue Pie: A Fresh Take On A Classic

Lemon and Pear Meringue Pie is a twist on a classic, the tangy lemon and sweet pears are a match made in heaven. The soft buttery crust is the perfect base for the lemon filling and the pears add a fun texture and richness. And then the golden fluffy meringue on top is perfectly baked to give a nice crunch.

This is not just a dessert, it is an experience, each bite has a balance of tart from the lemon, sweet from the pears and the airy smoothness of the meringue. It is perfect to serve when you want to impress or treat yourself. Whether you are serving it after a family dinner or sharing it with friends at a cosy gathering, Lemon and Pear Meringue Pie brings everyone together, it is comforting and new, familiar and different.

A Simple Recipe To Bake Lemon and Pear Meringue Pie

Lemon and Pear Meringue Pie is a lovely combination of tart lemon and sweet pears, in a buttery crust topped with a fluffy meringue. Perfect for those who want a light but indulgent dessert that is both tart and sweet. The creamy lemon filling and soft pears make each bite impossible to resist.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp cold water
• 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• ¾ cup sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 3 egg whites
• ½ tsp cream of tartar
• ½ cup sugar

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix flour and powdered sugar. Cut in butter until it looks like breadcrumbs. Add cold water and knead into a dough.
2. Roll out and fit into a tart pan. Bake at 180°C for 10-12 minutes.
3. In a pan, combine lemon juice, sugar, egg yolks and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest. Fold in sliced pears and set aside.
5. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Add sugar gradually and beat until stiff peaks form.
6. Pour the lemon-pear filling into the baked crust. Top with meringue and spread to the edges. Bake at 160°C for 15-20 minutes.0
7. Let the pie cool completely before slicing and serving.

5 Creative Ways to Garnish and Plate Lemon and Pear Meringue Pie

1. Dust with Icing Sugar for Sophistication

Sometimes simplicity is the most effective, a light dusting of icing sugar over the pie gives it a snowy, otherworldly look that makes the golden meringue pop. The fine white powder looks beautiful against the warm colours of the pie and makes each slice look polished and posh. Use a fine mesh sieve for an even coating and for extra fancy, place a stencil over the pie to make swirls or floral designs.

2. Add Lemon Zest Spirals for Color

Bright yellow spirals of fresh lemon zest not only match the pie’s citrusy flavor but add a burst of colour and fragrance. Use a zesting tool or peeler to carefully create thin, delicate strips of lemon peel. Place the spirals on top of the meringue or let them drizzle over the sides of the pie slice. They will instantly brighten the plate and their citrusy scent will tantalise your guests.

3. Top with Poached Pear Slices for Fancy

To show off the pie’s fruitiness, top with thin slices of poached pears. The soft, shiny pears add a touch of elegance to the dish. Poach the pears in a simple syrup with vanilla or cinnamon and arrange the slices in a fan around the pie slice. Brush them with the poaching syrup before serving for extra shine. This garnish not only tastes good but ties the whole thing together.

4. Drizzle with Lemon Sauce for a Zing

A drizzle of bright lemon sauce takes the pie to the next level and amplifies the citrus. Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to create fun designs around the slice on the plate—think zigzags, dots or a swirl. The yellow color is a visual pop and the creamy texture is a nice contrast to the meringue and crust.

5. Top with Crystallized Citrus Peel for Texture

Crystallized lemon or orange peel is a fancy way to add texture and sweetness to the dessert. These candied peels have a fun chewiness that contrasts with the creamy filling and light meringue. Place a few strips on top of each pie slice or arrange them around the edge of the plate like a crown.