How To Make Zesty Orange Meringue Pie

Orange Meringue Pie is a refreshing twist on the classic lemon meringue pie. With its sweet, tangy orange filling and fluffy meringue topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into creating this delightful treat!

Orange Meringue Pie Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons cold water

For the Orange Filling:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 4 oranges)
• Zest of 2 oranges
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg yolks (reserve the whites for the meringue)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Meringue:

• 3 large egg whites
• ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ½ cup granulated sugar

Orange Meringue Pie Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
2. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the edges and prick the bottom with a fork.
7. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 10 minutes until golden. Let cool.

Step 2: Make the Orange Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
3. Remove from heat. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks.
4. Gradually add a few spoonfuls of the hot orange mixture to the yolks, whisking to temper them.
5. Slowly pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring continuously.
6. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the butter. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Meringue

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Spread the meringue over the orange filling, making sure it touches the edges of the crust to seal the pie.
2. Use the back of a spoon to create peaks and swirls in the meringue.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Let the pie cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
2. Slice and enjoy the zesty, creamy goodness of your homemade Orange Meringue Pie!

Orange Meringue Pie Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 310
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 24g
• Protein: 4g

Tips for Success Orange Meringue Pie:

• For a richer flavor, use a mix of orange juice and tangerine juice.
• Ensure the meringue is spread to the crust edges to prevent it from shrinking during baking.
• Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion:

This Orange Meringue Pie is a citrusy dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether for a holiday table or a casual gathering, it’s sure to impress. Happy baking!