Ingredients

Lemon Curd Ingredients

120 grams (4.2 ounces) lemon juice (from 3 medium lemons)
20 grams (0.7 ounces) water
1/2 lemon zest
2 egg yolks
110 grams (3.9 ounces) granulated sugar
50 grams (1.8 ounces) unsalted butter
We recommend:

Instructions

Step 1

Preparing the Meringue

Start by ensuring that your egg whites are at room temperature. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until they reach a consistency resembling "beer foam". Once this is achieved, gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whisk.

Continue whisking until stiff peaks form, and then gently fold in the powdered sugar. Finally, add the cornstarch and mix until fully incorporated.

Use a spoon to scoop the meringue onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making small nests with a slight indentation in the center.

Bake the meringues at a low temperature of 90 degrees Celsius (194 degrees Fahrenheit) for 1 to 1.5 hours in a convection oven. I recommend baking them for one hour if you prefer a soft center.

Step 2

Making the Lemon Curd

Start by squeezing the lemon juice from the three lemons into a bowl, then add the water. In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the granulated sugar and whisk until smooth.

Combine the lemon juice mixture with the egg yolk mixture, and then transfer to a saucepan. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir constantly with a silicone or wooden spatula until the mixture begins to bubble.

Once bubbling, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes. After the mixture has cooled, add the unsalted butter in small pieces, stirring well until fully melted and incorporated.

Chill the lemon curd in the refrigerator for one hour before use.

Step 3

Assembling and Serving

Once the lemon curd is chilled, use it to fill each meringue nest until they are generously topped. Optionally, you may decorate the tops with whipped cream or any garnish of your choice.

Enjoy these delightful Easter Lemon Curd Meringue Treats with family and friends!

Servings

When it comes to serving your stunning lemon curd filled meringue eggs, presentation is key! Imagine placing these beautiful pastries on a pastel-colored platter, their delicate texture and vibrant lemon filling catching the eye. For a special touch, dust them lightly with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves! 🍋✨ Pair these delectable treats with a refreshing iced tea or a sparkling lemonade for a delightful afternoon tea. If you're feeling festive, consider setting up a sweet table at your Easter brunch – mix these filled meringues with chocolate eggs and colorful macarons for an extravagant treat that will have everyone reaching for more! 🥳 Don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the little things – each bite will take you back to warm sunny days filled with laughter and joy. Your guests won’t just be eating dessert; they’ll be indulging in a magical experience!

Equipment

Variations

Looking to switch things up? You can easily create gluten-free and vegan variations to suit different dietary needs. 💚 For a **gluten-free** option, simply ensure the corn starch is certified gluten-free. You can fill the meringue shells with a delicious fruit curd made from any favorite fruit like raspberries or passionfruit instead of lemon. The sweet-tart flavor will still shine through beautifully! 🍓 If you're in need of a **vegan** alternative, substitute the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for your meringue. For the lemon curd, use a mix of lemon juice, corn starch, and coconut milk as a creamy base. This way, you won’t miss out on the rich taste while keeping it plant-based! 🌱

Faq

  • Can I use egg whites from a carton instead of fresh?

    Yes! Carton egg whites can be a convenient alternative. Just ensure you measure the right amount for the recipe.

  • Why isn’t my meringue forming stiff peaks?

    This could be due to residual fat in your mixing bowl or whisk. Ensure everything is clean and free from grease.

  • What’s the best way to store leftover filled meringue eggs?

    Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed fresh but can last for a day or two.

  • How can I tell when my lemon curd is ready?

    It’s ready when it thickens up and coats the back of a spoon. If you run your finger through it, it should hold its shape without running.

  • Can I make the meringue ahead of time?

    Yes! You can prepare the meringue shells a day ahead and store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp.

  • What if my meringue cracks while baking?

    Cracks can happen if the temperature is too high. Ensure you're baking at a low temperature to create a gently dried meringue.

Nutrition facts

Easter Lemon Curd Meringue Treats
Recipe Yield:12 servings
Calories:The recipe yields a total calorie range of approximately 100 to 150 calories per serving.
Calories (Min - Max):100 - 150
Total Fat:6g
Saturated Fat:3g
Protein:2g
Total Carbohydrate:15g
Total Sugars:10g