Lemon Meringue Pie Bars

Lemon Meringue Pie Bars: A Tangy Twist on Tradition

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 cup flour
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 stick of butter, cubed

For the Filling:

• 6 large eggs
• 2 1/4 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup lemon juice
• Zest of two medium-sized lemons

For the Meringue:

• 3 large egg whites
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

Tips and Advice:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Crust Preparation:

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar.
• Mix in the cubed butter until the dough forms, using your hands, a fork, or a food mixer.
• Shape the dough into a thin layer in a 9x13 pan.
• Bake for approximately 10 minutes, until the sides are golden and the top is slightly puffed.

3. Filling:

• In the mixer bowl, combine eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and zest.
• Beat on medium speed for about 1.5 minutes.
• Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and return it to the oven.
• Bake for 20 minutes or until the filling is set.

4. Cooling and Chilling:

• Allow the bars to cool, then refrigerate until cold and firm.

5. Meringue:

• Place a metal bowl over boiling water and whisk egg whites and sugar until the sugar melts and forms a sauce.
• Transfer the bowl to a mixer and whisk on high until stiff peaks form.

6. Assembling:

• Cut the cold lemon bars into pieces.
• Spoon or pipe meringue onto each bar and lightly brown with a kitchen torch. Alternatively, spread meringue over the entire pan before cutting and brown it under the broiler.

7. Enjoy the Result:

• From the crunchy crust to the creamy, tangy filling and the light, fluffy meringue, these Lemon Meringue Pie Bars offer a delightful blend of tastes and textures.
• Perfect for parties, dinners, or a sweet indulgence, these bars are sure to be a hit.
• Relish the process and savor the delicious outcome!