Get ready to experience a dessert that's not just a treat, but a culinary masterpiece that will transport you to a world of pure deliciousness! This Raspberry Lemon Meringue Pudding is the ultimate combination of tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Imagine a silky smooth raspberry base infused with bright lemon zest, topped with a cloud-like meringue that's perfectly toasted to golden perfection – it's a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups water
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Instructions
- Prepare the raspberry base by combining raspberries, 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, salt, and water in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly temper the egg yolks by adding a small amount of hot raspberry mixture while continuously whisking to prevent curdling.
- Return the tempered egg yolk mixture to the saucepan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until the pudding becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and lemon zest. Transfer the raspberry pudding to individual serving dishes and let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the meringue by beating egg whites with cream of tartar in a clean, dry mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining 1/2 cup sugar while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks develop.
- Spoon or pipe the meringue over the cooled raspberry pudding, ensuring complete coverage.
- Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue, or place under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Chill the puddings for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the meringue to set.
Tips
- Temperature is key: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting, especially for the meringue. This helps create a more stable and glossy meringue.
- Prevent egg yolk curdling: When tempering egg yolks, add the hot mixture very slowly and whisk constantly to prevent scrambling.
- Meringue success secrets: - Use a clean, dry bowl for beating egg whites - Ensure no trace of egg yolk is in the whites - Add sugar gradually for a stable meringue
- Torch vs. Broiler: If using a kitchen torch, move it constantly for even browning. If using a broiler, watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Chilling is crucial: Allow the pudding to chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and meringue set perfectly.
- Serve fresh: This dessert is best enjoyed within 24 hours of preparation for optimal texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 95mg
