Ingredients:

For the Pie Filling:

1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups water
3 large egg yolks, beaten
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2-3 lemons)

For the Meringue:

3 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. If using a homemade pie crust, pre-bake it according to the recipe’s instructions or the package instructions if using a store-bought crust. Allow it to cool.
3. In a saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and salt.
4. Gradually add the water, whisking until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually whisk about half of the hot mixture into the beaten egg yolks to temper them.
6. Pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan and return it to the heat. Cook and stir for another 2 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
8. Pour the lemon filling into the baked and cooled pie crust.
9. In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
10. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
11. Spread the meringue evenly over the lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges of the pie crust with the meringue.
12. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the meringue is lightly browned.
13. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours or until set.
14. Slice and serve your Lemon Meringue Pie, and savor the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.