When I first experimented with meringue, I was eager to create a dessert that not only tasted out of this world but also looked like it had come straight from a sci-fi movie. The moment I introduced edible glitter into my meringue, I knew I had stumbled upon a game-changer. This Galactic Meringue Pie combines a creamy, tangy filling with ethereal meringue that’s as dazzling as a starry night.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ice water
For the Lemon Filling:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 ½ cups water
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Zest of 1 lemon
For the Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons edible glitter
Instructions
To create the perfect pie crust, combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly drizzle in the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Shape it into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled pie dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Place the rolled dough into the dish, trimming excess. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden. Allow it to cool completely.
For the lemon filling, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan. Gradually stir in water until smooth. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and lemon juice. Slowly pour some of the hot mixture into the egg yolks to temper them, then return everything to the saucepan. Stir in butter and lemon zest. Cook for another minute, stirring until fully combined. Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust and let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
While the filling is setting, prepare the meringue. Using a stand mixer, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy. Beat in vanilla extract and gently fold in the edible glitter for that galactic touch.
Spread the meringue over the lemon filling, making sure to seal the edges to prevent shrinking. Use a kitchen torch to toast the meringue until it’s golden brown and has a beautiful texture. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the pie under a broiler for a few minutes, but watch it closely to avoid burning.
Let the pie cool before slicing, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve with an extra sprinkle of edible glitter for that extra sparkle!
This Galactic Meringue Pie will surely be the star of your dessert table, combining modern techniques with a timeless classic, all while taking your taste buds on a cosmic journey! Enjoy!