# Mini Lemon Meringue Pies for Valentines Day – A Tangy Surprise
### Introduction
Brighten up Valentine’s Day celebrations with these delightful Mini Lemon Meringue Pies. Infusing the freshness of lemons and the softness of meringue, these adorable pies make an ideal dessert for this occasion of love.
### Why Make This Recipe
These Mini Lemon Meringue Pies are not only aesthetically appealing but are also a perfect blend of sweet and tangy. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, these zesty mini pies are the perfect gesture to express your love for your significant other!
### How to Make Mini Lemon Meringue Pies
#### Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tbsp sugar
For the Lemon Filling:
– 1/2 cup lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
– Zest of 2 lemons
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 cup water
For the Meringue:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
#### Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture into mini pie or tart pans. Bake for 5 minutes and let cool.
3. In a saucepan, mix lemon juice, zest, sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Pour into the cooled crusts.
4. In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
5. Spoon meringue over lemon filling, ensuring it touches the edges to seal in the filling. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the meringue is golden brown.
6. Allow pies to cool completely before serving to ensure the filling is set.
### How to Serve Mini Lemon Meringue Pies
Serve the Mini Lemon Meringue Pies at room temperature. You can pair them up with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of chilled sparkling wine for a perfect Valentine’s dessert.
### How to Store Mini Lemon Meringue Pies
Store the Mini Lemon Meringue Pies in the fridge covered in cling film or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
### Tips to Make Mini Lemon Meringue Pies
– Ensure to seal the meringue onto the edge of the crust to prevent it from shrinking when baked.
– Before pouring the lemon filling into the crusts, make sure they are completely cooled to prevent them from getting soggy.
– To achieve a glossy and stable meringue, gradually add sugar while beating the egg whites.
### Variations
You can switch up the flavor by adding fresh berries to the lemon filling.
### FAQs
**1. Can I use limes instead of lemons?**
Yes, you can replace lemons with limes for a different tangy twist to the pies.
**2. What other sweeteners can I use instead of sugar?**
For a healthier option, you could replace the sugar with honey or a sugar substitute.
**3. Can the pies be frozen?**
Yes! You can freeze them, but it’s best to add the meringue just before you’re going to serve them. Defrost the pies in the refrigerator overnight before adding the meringue and baking.