Lemon Meringue Pie Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts: zesty lemon meringue pie and fluffy cupcakes. These mini treats offer a burst of tangy lemon flavor, a sweet and tender cupcake base, and a cloud-like meringue topping that’s lightly toasted for that perfect finish. Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cupcakes bring the bright and sunny flavors of lemon meringue pie to your fingertips.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Lemon Curd Filling:
- 1/2 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
For the Meringue Topping:
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparing the Cupcakes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. Your batter will have a delightful lemony fragrance.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cupcakes dense.
- Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the prepared paper liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Remember, every oven is different, so keep an eye on them.
- Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Filling the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes have cooled, use a cupcake corer or a small spoon to remove a portion from the center of each cupcake, creating a small well.
- Fill each well with a spoonful of lemon curd, adding that delicious tangy surprise to the cupcakes.
Making the Meringue Topping:
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they start to foam.
- Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat the egg whites. Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract while beating. Beat until stiff peaks form, and the meringue is glossy and smooth.
Finishing the Cupcakes:
- Spoon or pipe the meringue topping onto each cupcake, covering the lemon curd filling and creating a beautiful dome of meringue on top.
- If you like, you can use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue, giving it a golden finish. Alternatively, place the cupcakes under the broiler for a brief moment, but be watchful to avoid burning.
- Once the meringue is lightly toasted, your Lemon Meringue Pie Cupcakes are ready to be served.
Variations and Tips
- Lemon Zest Garnish: For an extra burst of lemony flavor and a touch of elegance, garnish each cupcake with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest before serving.
- Store-Bought Lemon Curd: While making homemade lemon curd is a delightful option, you can also use store-bought lemon curd for convenience.
- Mini Cupcakes: Create bite-sized Lemon Meringue Pie Mini Cupcakes by using a mini cupcake tin and reducing the baking time accordingly.
- Flavorful Cupcake Variations: Experiment with different cupcake flavors, like vanilla or almond, to complement the lemony goodness.
- Storage: Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within a day or two.
Lemon Meringue Pie Cupcakes are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, bringing the vibrant flavors of lemon meringue pie into convenient, handheld treats. These cupcakes offer a harmonious blend of tangy lemon, tender cupcake crumb, and billowy meringue topping, making them a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or indulging in a personal sweet escape, these cupcakes bring a burst of sunshine to your palate. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite!
