Description
At their core, Mini Lemon Meringue Icebox Pies are a modern, simplified twist on a timeless vintage dessert. Instead of a traditional pastry crust that requires rolling and blind baking, these pies utilize a buttery graham cracker foundation that sets perfectly in the refrigerator. The filling is a luxurious, velvety mixture that relies on the natural thickening power of citrus juice reacting with sweetened condensed milk—a culinary trick that creates a thick, creamy texture without any eggs or cornstarch.
Ingredients
Crust
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1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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6 tbsp melted butter
Lemon Filling
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1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
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1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
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½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
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1 tbsp lemon zest
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Meringue Topping
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3 large egg whites (room temp)
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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¼ tsp cream of tartar (optional but helpful)
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½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Make the crust
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Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it looks like wet sand.
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Press firmly into the bottoms (and slightly up the sides) of a muffin tin or mini tart pans.
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Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to set.
2. Lemon filling
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Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.
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In another bowl, whisk condensed milk, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla until smooth.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture.
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Spoon or pipe filling into the chilled crusts.
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Chill at least 3–4 hours (overnight is even better).
3. Meringue
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Beat egg whites until foamy.
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Add cream of tartar, then slowly add sugar while beating.
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Beat until glossy stiff peaks form.
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Beat in vanilla.
4. Top & finish
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Pipe or spoon meringue onto each mini pie.
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Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the tops or place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes (watch closely!).
Notes
These mini lemon meringue icebox pies are best served well-chilled and can be made a day ahead, making them perfect for entertaining. For clean slices and easy serving, keep them refrigerated until just before serving—and enjoy that bright, creamy lemon flavor in every bite!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie
- Calories: 320 kcal
Keywords: Individual No Bake Lemon Pies, Small Lemon Meringue Tarts, Mini Citrus Icebox Desserts, Bite Sized Lemon Meringue Pies