Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Lemon Mixture

Combine the lemon juice and water in a bowl.

Pour this mixture over the albumin and blend them together until well mixed.

Let the mixture rest for about 30 minutes so that the albumin can properly swell.

Step 2

Make Swiss Meringue

In a heat-safe bowl, combine the fresh egg whites and sugar.

Place this bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bottom does not touch the water. Heat the mixture to around 55-60°C (130-140°F), whisking constantly until the sugar fully dissolves.

Remove from heat and whip the mixture until it cools and forms a stiff and glossy meringue that holds its shape.

Step 3

Decorate Your Dish

Once the meringue is ready, you can use it to decorate your desserts in any way you prefer.

For an elegant touch, consider using a kitchen torch to gently brown the meringue, adding a beautiful finish to your decorations.

Step 4

Tips for Stability

If you opt for the classic meringue using fresh egg whites, maintain a 1:1 ratio of egg whites to sugar: 70 grams of fresh egg whites to 70 grams of sugar.

To enhance stability and prevent excess moisture, you can incorporate 0.5% cream of tartar or 5-10% inulin towards the end of the mixing process.

Servings

When it comes to serving your Lemon Meringue decoration, the possibilities are endless! 🎉 **Imagine a refreshing lemon meringue topped cake** on your picnic table, catching the sunlight and shining like a star. It pairs wonderfully with a fruity filling like raspberry or strawberry, giving guests a burst of flavor with each bite. You could also use this **decorative delight on cupcakes**, transforming an ordinary dessert into a mini masterpiece! 🧁 Add fresh fruits on top, or simply sprinkle with edible glitter for that extra wow factor! For a fun afternoon treat, serve your lemon meringue alongside **a scoop of vanilla ice cream**. The cold creaminess perfectly complements the zesty sweetness of the meringue, creating a heavenly duo that you won't be able to resist! 🍦 Don't forget to snap pictures of your beautiful creations and share them with friends! Tell us in the comments how you plan to decorate your pastries. 🤗

Equipment

Blender

A good-quality blender is essential for mixing the lemon juice with the albumin and ensuring a smooth texture before allowing it to hydrate.

We recommend:
Prime Ninja BL660 Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender, 1100-Watts, 3 Functions -for Frozen Drinks, Smoothies, Sauces, & More, 72-oz.* Pitcher, (2) 16-oz. To-Go Cups & Spout Lids, Gray
4.7
(102,420) Ninja BL660 Professional Compact Smoothie & Food Processing Blender, 1100-Watts, 3 Functions -for Frozen Drinks, Smoothies, Sauces, & More, 72-oz.* Pitcher, (2) 16-oz. To-Go Cups & Spout Lids, Gray $99.99 $119.99 View details Prime Ninja Fit Compact Personal Blender, Portable Blender for-Smoothies, Shakes, Food Prep, and Frozen Blending, 700-Watt Base, (2) 16-oz. Cups and Spout Lids, Black QB3001SS
4.7
(38,140) Ninja Fit Compact Personal Blender, Portable Blender for-Smoothies, Shakes, Food Prep, and Frozen Blending, 700-Watt Base, (2) 16-oz. Cups and Spout Lids, Black QB3001SS $49.99 $69.99 View details Prime best seller Magic Bullet Blender, Small, Silver, 11 Piece Set
4.4
(109,298) Magic Bullet Blender, Small, Silver, 11 Piece Set $39.88 $49.99 View details
Double Boiler

This will help you gently heat the egg whites and sugar, allowing them to combine without cooking. If you don't have one, a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water works just as well!

We recommend:
TrueCraftware-12 Quart Double Boiler Stainless Steel 3 Piece Set- Steam Melting Pot Stainless Steel Double Boiler Pot for Melting Chocolate Candy Butter and Cheese Dishwasher & Oven Safe
5
(2) TrueCraftware-12 Quart Double Boiler Stainless Steel 3 Piece Set- Steam Melting Pot Stainless Steel Double Boiler Pot for Melting Chocolate Candy Butter and Cheese Dishwasher & Oven Safe $138.08 View details Prime de Buyer Double Boiler Bain-Marie - 1.6 qt - Ideal for Cooking, Warming & Defrosting Delicate Foods, Including Custards & Sauces - Easy to Use
5
(2) de Buyer Double Boiler Bain-Marie - 1.6 qt - Ideal for Cooking, Warming & Defrosting Delicate Foods, Including Custards & Sauces - Easy to Use $105.00 View details Prime Winware Stainless DoubleBoiler, 16 Quart, stainless steel
4.7
(59) Winware Stainless DoubleBoiler, 16 Quart, stainless steel $111.92 $125.10 View details
Whisk or Electric Mixer

A whisk or mixer is vital to achieve the fluffy, stable meringue. An electric mixer is easier for beginners and helps reduce effort.

We recommend:
Prime Stand Mixer, Kitchen in the box 3.2Qt Small Electric Food Mixer,6 Speeds Portable Lightweight Kitchen Mixer for Daily Use with Egg Whisk,Dough Hook,Flat Beater (Red)
4.4
(5,019) Stand Mixer, Kitchen in the box 3.2Qt Small Electric Food Mixer,6 Speeds Portable Lightweight Kitchen Mixer for Daily Use with Egg Whisk,Dough Hook,Flat Beater (Red) $79.99 View details
Culinary Torch

If you want to add that perfect toasted finish, a culinary torch is your best friend for achieving that professional look.

Variations

If you're gluten-free or vegan, don't worry, we've got options for you! 🌱 **Gluten-Free**: The great news is that this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to check that the sugar and any other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free. This delicious lemon meringue will be the star of your table! **Vegan**: For a vegan version, swap out the albumin for aquafaba, which is the liquid from canned chickpeas. Whip it up just like you would with egg whites, and continue with the same process. You’ll end up with a light and fluffy meringue that's totally plant-based! 🌈 Just ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly as well. Feel free to get creative and enjoy your lemon meringue in any form that suits your dietary preferences! 🍋

Faq

  • I'm a beginner. What are some tips for making sure my meringue turns out right?

    Start with room temperature egg whites or albumin. Make sure all your equipment is clean and grease-free to achieve the best volume in your meringue. Also, take your time when beating to get that lovely fluffy texture!

  • Can I make the meringue ahead of time?

    Yes! You can prepare the meringue a few hours in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge until you're ready to use it, but it's best fresh for the fluffiness factor!

  • As an intermediate chef, how can I ensure my meringue is stable?

    Incorporate a stabilizer like cream of tartar (win. 0.5%) or a small amount of cornstarch to help your meringue hold its shape and create a shiny finish!

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

    Store any leftover meringue in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can affect its texture.

  • As an experienced baker, what are the best serving temperatures for lemon meringue?

    Generally, lemon meringue is best served at room temperature. It allows the flavors to shine! However, you can also refrigerate it for a short time if you'd prefer it cooler.

  • How can I fix a runny meringue?

    If your meringue is too runny, it may not have been whipped enough. Re-whip it until you see stiff peaks or add a stabilizer during mixing to help it hold better.

Nutrition facts

Lemon Meringue Decoration Recipe for All Occasions
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Approximately 50-70 calories per serving, depending on the sweetness and additional ingredients.
Calories (Min - Max):50 - 70
Total Fat:0g
Saturated Fat:0g
Protein:1g
Total Carbohydrate:15g
Total Sugars:14g