Arizona Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe

Ingredients for Arizona Lemon Meringue Pie

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh Lemon Juice
• Lemon
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon extract
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• Pastry Crust

How to Make Arizona Lemon Meringue Pie

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your favorite pie crust (see recipe #339607 or use store-bought) and bake according to package directions. Let cool completely.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of boiling water until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk 4 large egg yolks. Gradually whisk 1/2 cup of the hot pudding mixture into the egg yolks to temper them. Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining filling and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, the zest of 2 lemons, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon lemon extract, and 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice. Stir until smooth and the butter is melted.
6. Pour the lemon filling into the cooled pie crust. Set aside to cool slightly.
7. In a clean, dry bowl, beat 4 large egg whites with 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
8. Gradually add 1/2 cup granulated sugar, beating at high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form.
9. Gently fold in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
10. Spoon large dollops of meringue onto the lemon filling, sealing the edges to the crust to prevent shrinkage.
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown and lightly firm.
12. Let cool completely for at least 2 hours before serving. For easy slicing, dip your knife in hot water between slices.