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
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp melted butter
Lemon Filling
1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
Meringue Topping
3 large egg whites (room temp)
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ tsp cream of tartar (optional but helpful)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Make the crust
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it looks like wet sand.
Press firmly into the bottoms (and slightly up the sides) of a muffin tin or mini tart pans.
Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to set.
2. Lemon filling
Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks.
In another bowl, whisk condensed milk, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla until smooth.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture.
Spoon or pipe filling into the chilled crusts.
Chill at least 3–4 hours (overnight is even better).
3. Meringue
Beat egg whites until foamy.
Add cream of tartar, then slowly add sugar while beating.
Beat until glossy stiff peaks form.
Beat in vanilla.
4. Top & finish
Pipe or spoon meringue onto each mini pie.
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