Name: Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (at room temperature); ½ cup Light Brown Sugar ((110g)); 1 medium Egg; 1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs ((84g)); ½ cup All-Purpose Flour ((62.5g)); 6 large Egg Yolks (at room temperature); 14 ounces Sweetened Condensed Milk ((396.89ml)); ½ cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice ((122ml)); 1¼ cups Granulated Sugar (divided); 2 tablespoons Light Corn Syrup; 3 tablespoons Water; 6 large Egg Whites (at room temperature)

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When I think about indulgent desserts, the first thing that comes to mind is the Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars. There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a piece of this luscious treat. Growing up, my family had a tradition of making these bars for special occasions. The zesty lemon filling combined with a fluffy, toasted meringue topping creates a perfect harmony of flavors that always brings back fond memories. On a sunny afternoon, I can still see my grandmother whipping up this delightful dessert, her laughter filling the kitchen as the sweet aroma wafted through the air. I remember waiting impatiently for the bars to cool, eager to dive into a slice of that citrus goodness!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 30 mins

Prep Time:
60 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Large Pot, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why This Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars Shines

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars, and I’m excited to share just a few:

1. A Perfect Balance of Flavors

These bars strike the ideal balance between sweet and tart. The bright flavor of freshly squeezed lemon juice dances beautifully with the sweetness of the meringue. Every bite feels like a burst of sunshine.

2. Nostalgic Comfort

For many, lemon meringue bars evoke cherished memories of family gatherings and celebrations. Just one bite can transport you back to those joyful times, making it not just a treat but a nostalgic experience.

3. Beautiful Presentation

The visual appeal of these bars is undeniable. With a golden brown meringue topping that is beautifully swirled, they look as amazing as they taste. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll impress your guests before they even take a bite.

4. Versatility

While they’re perfect for springtime gatherings, Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it’s a summer picnic or a winter holiday dinner, they always make an excellent choice.

5. Make Ahead Delight

These bars can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal dessert for busy hosts. Just prepare them in advance, chill them in the fridge, and serve when you’re ready. It’s a life-saver for those last-minute gatherings!

6. Simple Ingredients

With a handful of essential ingredients like unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and the star of the show, lemons, you can create something extraordinary without needing a treasure trove of supplies.

Key Ingredients for Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars

The ingredients for Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars are simple yet essential for achieving that dreamy taste. Each component plays a unique role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. You’ll find that the combination of butter, eggs, and fresh lemon juice works together to create a refreshing dessert that’s hard to resist.

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature – This is the base of the crust, adding rich flavor and a tender texture.
½ cup (110g) light brown sugar – Contributes sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that complements the lemon.
1 egg – Helps bind the crust together.
1 cup (84g) graham cracker crumbs – Forms the delicious crumb crust that sets the stage for the filling.
½ cup (62.5g) all-purpose flour – Adds structure to the crust, creating a sturdy base.
6 egg yolks, at room temperature – These enrich the filling and give it a luxurious texture.
14 ounces (396.89ml) can sweetened condensed milk – Adds creaminess and sweetness to the lemon filling.
½ cup (122ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice – The key ingredient that brings bright, tangy flavor.
1¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar, divided – Sweetens the filling and is also used for the meringue topping.
2 tablespoons light corn syrup – Helps stabilize the meringue, ensuring it holds its shape.
3 tablespoons water – Used in the meringue syrup.
6 egg whites, at room temperature – The stars of the meringue, creating that fluffy topping.

Step by Step Instructions for Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars

Prepare yourself for a delightful baking adventure with Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars. The steps may seem a bit detailed, but the process is enjoyable! Follow along carefully, and you’ll soon have a delicious dessert to impress your friends and family.

Make the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Grab an 8×8-inch square baking pan, lightly butter it, and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on each side for easy lifting later. Set it aside while you prepare the crust.
In a mixing bowl, combine unsalted butter and light brown sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. This step ensures your crust is tender.
Add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture and mix to combine. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Reduce the mixer speed to low, then add the flour and graham cracker crumbs. Mix until a soft dough forms. It will be a bit sticky, so don’t worry!
Transfer this dough into your prepared baking pan. Pat it down into an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it turns light golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
Make the Filling: Now it’s time for the filling! In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks on high speed using a whisk attachment until they become pale and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Gradually pour in the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to mix. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the bowl to mix everything well!
Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the filling and mix on medium speed until well combined, which will take about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Pour the filling over the crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the oven for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle when you gently move the pan. Once done, remove from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool to room temperature.
Once the filling has cooled completely, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the filling to firm up nicely.
Make the Meringue Topping: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup + 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, water, and light corn syrup over medium heat. Bring it to a boil while stirring occasionally. Once boiling, stop stirring and heat until the temperature reaches 240 degrees F.
While the sugar mixture is boiling, prepare your egg whites. Using an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form, which should take about 1 minute.
Gradually add the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to the whipped egg whites while mixing. If the sugar syrup isn’t ready yet, simply turn off the mixer and wait a moment.
Once your syrup reaches 240 degrees, turn the mixer back on to medium speed and slowly pour the syrup down the side of the bowl in a steady stream. This will help create a fluffy meringue.
After incorporating the syrup, increase the speed to high and beat the mixture until thick, fluffy, and cool, which should take about 7 minutes.
Finally, spread the meringue on top of the chilled lemon bar, swirling it to create lovely peaks. You can use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue for that perfect finish. If you don’t have a torch, place the pan back in a 500 degrees F oven for a few minutes, but keep a close watch so it doesn’t burn!
Allow the meringue to cool a bit, then slice into bars and serve. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature is Key: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps them whip better, leading to a fluffier meringue.
Don’t Rush the Process: Allow the bars to chill completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and proper texture.
Whipping Meringue: Be cautious not to overbeat your meringue, as this can lead to a grainy texture.
Proper Storage: Always store leftovers in the fridge to maintain the texture of the meringue and filling.

Ways to Customize

Every recipe has room for a little personal touch! Here are some creative ways to customize your Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars.

Citrus Twist: Add a touch of orange or lime zest to the filling for a unique flavor combination.
Flavorful Crust: Experiment with different cookie bases, like crushed vanilla wafers or chocolate cookies, for a fun twist.
Fruit Topping: Top your bars with fresh fruit like raspberries or blueberries before serving for extra color and flavor.
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or basil into the filling for a refreshing twist.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the meringue for added texture.
Alternative Sweeteners: Substitute part of the sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Mini Versions: Make mini lemon meringue pies in muffin tins for cute, individual servings at parties.

Pairing Suggestions for Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars

When it comes to serving Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to enhance your dessert experience:

Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lemon sorbet for a refreshing contrast.
Fresh Berries: Pair with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of sweetness and color.
Afternoon Tea: These bars are perfect for an elegant afternoon tea gathering, served alongside finger sandwiches.
Spring Celebrations: Great for springtime events, such as Easter brunch or graduation parties.
Picnic Treat: Pack them for a picnic; they’re easy to transport and will wow your friends.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge, tightly covered, to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy these bars throughout the spring and summer, as their bright flavors are perfect for warm days.

FAQ

Lemon meringue pie bars offer a similar refreshing flavor to traditional lemon meringue pie but in a more portable format. They are often easier to cut and serve, making them perfect for gatherings or picnics. The crust is typically more crumbly and cookie-like, while the filling remains zesty and vibrant. Plus, the meringue topping adds that light and airy texture we love, all while being neatly contained in a manageable bar form.

While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Fresh lemons provide a brighter, more vibrant taste that really shines in the filling. The acidity and zest from fresh lemons enhance the overall flavor profile, making your Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars truly stand out. If you must use bottled juice, try to find one that is labeled as 100 percent lemon juice and free from additives.

The filling for your Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars is set when it no longer jiggles in the center after being baked. It should look firm with a slight sheen on the surface. You can also gently shake the pan; if the edges are firm and the center is just slightly wobbly, it’s time to take it out of the oven. Overbaking can lead to a tough texture, so keep a close eye on it!

Leftover Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the texture of the meringue and the freshness of the lemon filling. They can typically last for up to three days. If you find that the meringue softens over time, you can re-toast it briefly under the broiler before serving again for that lovely golden finish.

Conclusion

The Sky High Lemon Meringue Pie Bars are truly a standout dessert that brings joy with every bite. Their perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, combined with a light and fluffy meringue, makes them an irresistible choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! It’s a delightful way to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special.