Description
These delicate mini meringues filled with tangy lemon curd are a fancy yet simple dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the mini meringues
- 4 large egg whites, room temp if possible
- 1 cup superfine sugar ((or pulse regular sugar in a blender for a few seconds))
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ((optional))
- 1 pinch salt
For the lemon curd
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 6 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
Making the Lemon Curd
- In a saucepan, whisk the egg yolks, whole egg, and sugar until smooth and lighter in color.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and keep whisking until thick like warm pudding.
- Once thick, take it off the heat and whisk in the butter pieces until melted and glossy.
- Strain it through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap pressed to the surface, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Baking the Meringues
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Beat egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy, then add the sugar slowly, one spoonful at a time.
- Continue beating until the mixture is glossy and holds stiff peaks, then sprinkle in cornstarch and add vinegar and vanilla.
- Spoon or pipe small swirls onto the parchment and create a dip in the center for the curd.
- Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave them to cool inside for at least 30 minutes.
Assembling the Dessert
- Ensure the meringues and lemon curd are both cool. Spoon 1 teaspoon of lemon curd into the center of each meringue.
- Add desired toppings like berries, a mint leaf, or zest just before serving.
Notes
Store meringues in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keep lemon curd in the fridge for up to 1 week. Assembled meringues are best enjoyed fresh within a few hours.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: brunch, Dessert
- Cuisine: American, French