Skip to main content

Mile-High Meringue Topping

This recipe yields an extraordinarily lofty topping. You may halve the recipe for a meringue with less volume. Either way, be sure to spread meringue until it completely covers the filling to prevent shrinking or “weeping.”

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes enough for one 9-inch pie

Ingredients

8 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    With an electric mixer on medium speed, whisk egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sugar. Increase speed and whisk until meringue is glossy and forms stiff peaks. Whisk in vanilla.

    Step 2

    Spoon meringue onto surface of the pie until it reaches the crust, then use an offset spatula to create a swirling pattern.

    Step 3

    If desired, use a kitchen torch to toast the meringue, moving flame back and forth until evenly browned. Or brown the meringue under the broiler, but keep an eye on it—a minute or two is all you need.

Martha Stewart's New Pies and Tarts
Read More
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
Using two entire lemons—pith, skin, and all—cranks up the citrus flavor in this classic dessert.
This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.
Like Greek lemon potatoes and gochujang chicken stir-fry.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Biscuits and gravy, but make it spring.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Like fattoush salad and strawberry shortcake roll.