Okay, let’s talk pie but not just any pie. Orange Meringue Pie is a bright, zesty twist on a classic that’s going to absolutely dazzle your taste buds. Imagine the tangy sunshine of oranges wrapped in a silky custard, nestled in a buttery crust, and topped with clouds of fluffy, golden meringue. Sounds dreamy, right? This pie is pure citrusy magic, perfect for when you want something sweet with a little sass. Whether you’re baking to impress or just treating yourself (which you should), this beauty is going to be your new go-to dessert.

Why You’ll Love Orange Meringue Pie

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Works as a show-stopping dessert for brunches, dinners, holidays, or just because.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have no fancy pastry chef supplies needed.

Quick and Easy: The filling and meringue come together fast you’ll spend more time admiring it than making it.

Customizable: Swap orange for blood orange or even combine with lemon for a citrus blend.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Orange Meringue Pie

Here’s what makes this sunshiney pie sing:

Pie Crust: A buttery, flaky base that holds it all together store-bought or homemade, your call.

Orange Juice & Zest: The heart of the flavor. Fresh-squeezed makes it sparkle, but bottled works in a pinch.

Egg Yolks: For richness and structure in that silky custard.

Sugar: Sweetens the filling and gives the meringue that gorgeous caramelized finish.

Cornstarch: Thickens the filling into that perfect creamy texture.

Butter: Adds smoothness and depth just a little makes a big difference.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of cozy flavor that complements the citrus.

Egg Whites: Whipped to glossy perfection for that dreamy meringue topping.

Cream of Tartar: Helps stabilize the egg whites so your meringue stands tall.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crust and meringue cook evenly.

Prepare the Crust: Blind bake your pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish until lightly golden. Let it cool while you make the filling.

Make the Filling: In a saucepan, whisk together orange juice, zest, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.

Pour the Filling: Pour the warm orange custard into the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Whip the Meringue: Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and beat until glossy stiff peaks form.

Top the Pie: Spread the meringue over the filling, making sure to seal the edges to the crust (so it doesn’t shrink while baking). Create swirls or peaks for a pretty finish.

Bake Until Golden: Bake for about 10–12 minutes, or until the meringue is beautifully golden on top.

Cool Completely: Let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate until fully set (at least 2 hours).

Serve and Swoon: Slice and serve chilled for the perfect bite of tangy-sweet bliss.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: Approx. 310–350

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes + chilling time

How to Serve Orange Meringue Pie

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Garnish with thin orange slices or candied citrus peel for a fancy touch
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot tea it balances the citrus beautifully
• Add a dusting of powdered sugar before serving for an extra-pretty presentation

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Use fresh oranges for zest and juice it makes the flavor pop
• Don’t skip sealing the meringue to the crust it prevents it from weeping
• Chill the pie thoroughly before slicing to get clean, beautiful pieces
• If your meringue starts to bead or weep, it just means a little extra moisture still tasty!
• You can toast the meringue with a kitchen torch for dramatic flair if you like

FAQ’s

1 Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

2 Why is my meringue weeping?
That happens from condensation. Make sure the meringue is sealed to the crust and fully cooked.

3 Can I freeze Orange Meringue Pie?
Freezing isn’t ideal for meringue—the texture gets weird. Best to enjoy it fresh.

4 Can I use bottled orange juice?
Yes, but add fresh zest to boost the flavor.

5 What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Loosely cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

6 Can I use a graham cracker crust?
You can! It adds a slightly sweeter, nuttier flavor that pairs nicely with orange.

7 What if I don’t have cream of tartar?
You can use lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute to stabilize the meringue.

8 Can I add other citrus flavors?
Absolutely! Try adding lemon or grapefruit juice for a citrusy twist.

9 Do I need to use a thermometer for the filling?
Not necessary just cook until the filling thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

10 How do I know when the meringue is done baking?
When it’s golden brown on top and holds its shape it should look beautifully toasted.

Conclusion

Orange Meringue Pie is sunshine in a slice zesty, sweet, and beautifully creamy with a crown of golden meringue that’s impossible to resist. It’s a dessert that brings a little brightness to any day and makes you feel like you’re treating yourself to something truly special. So grab those oranges, whip up that meringue, and prepare to wow your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share a slice with you!

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