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Indulge in a burst of citrusy delight with our Vegan Lemon ‘Meringue’ Slice. This tantalizing dessert captures the essence of the classic lemon meringue pie while offering a compassionate twist. With its vibrant lemon flavor, velvety filling, and light ‘meringue’ topping, this vegan dessert is the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
The Vegan Lemon ‘Meringue’ Slice is a delightful twist on the classic lemon meringue pie. It’s a plant-based, gluten-free, and cruelty-free dessert that captures the essence of the original but with a modern, ethical, and health-conscious approach. Here’s a look into the origins and story behind this delectable treat:
- Inspiration from Tradition: The classic lemon meringue pie is a beloved dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s known for its vibrant lemon flavor, silky meringue topping, and buttery crust.
- Plant-Based Innovation: The Vegan Lemon ‘Meringue’ Slice was born out of a desire to create a dessert that could be enjoyed by those following a vegan or plant-based lifestyle. It replaces traditional ingredients like eggs and dairy with plant-based alternatives.
- Cruelty-Free and Allergy-Friendly: This recipe is not only vegan but also allergen-friendly, making it suitable for individuals with egg or dairy allergies. It’s a testament to how culinary innovation can accommodate diverse dietary preferences and requirements.
- Zesty and Sweet: The star of this dessert is the vibrant lemon flavor. The lemony filling strikes a balance between sweet and tart, creating a refreshing and satisfying treat.
Vegan Lemon ‘Meringue’ Slice
The Vegan Lemon 'Meringue' Slice is a delightful vegan take on the traditional lemon meringue pie. It features a buttery, crumbly crust, a luscious lemon custard filling, and a fluffy 'meringue' topping made from aquafaba. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this vegan dessert is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls: Buy On Amazon
- Whisk : Buy On Amazon
- Saucepan: Buy On Amazon
- Baking dish: Buy On Amazon
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Rolling pin: Buy On Amazon
- Knife: Buy On Amazon
- Measuring cups and spoons: Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
For the Crust:
For the Lemon Filling:
For the 'Meringue' Topping:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar for the crust. Add the cubed vegan butter and cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Press the dough into the bottom of the greased baking dish and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow to cool.
In a saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, granulated sugar, cornstarch, turmeric, and water for the filling. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
Pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Allow to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
In a mixing bowl, combine aquafaba and cream of tartar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until soft peaks form.
Gradually add powdered sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Mix in vanilla extract.
Spread the 'meringue' topping over the chilled lemon filling. Use a spoon to create peaks and swirls.
Use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the 'meringue' topping or place the slice under the broiler for a minute or two (watch closely).
Refrigerate the Vegan Lemon 'Meringue' Slice for another 30 minutes to set the 'meringue' before slicing and serving.
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 354.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.01g14%
- Saturated Fat 1.79g9%
- Cholesterol 0.14mg1%
- Sodium 97.76mg5%
- Potassium 222.49mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 69.36g24%
- Dietary Fiber 1.15g5%
- Sugars 40.57g
- Protein 3.15g7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- Zest: Add lemon zest to the lemon filling for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.
- Individual Servings: Create individual Vegan Lemon 'Meringue' Tartlets by using mini tart pans.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Vegan Lemon 'Meringue' Slice chilled, garnished with lemon zest or slices, and a dollop of vegan whipped cream. Pair it with a hot cup of herbal tea or vegan ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Allergen Information:
Nuts: This recipe typically uses nuts, often almonds or cashews, as the base for the creamy filling. Be cautious if you or your guests have nut allergies and consider using an alternative like coconut cream or silken tofu.
Gluten: While this recipe is gluten-free, always double-check the ingredients for potential cross-contamination if you or someone you are serving has a gluten sensitivity or allergy.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Herbal Tea: The Vegan Lemon 'Meringue' Slice pairs wonderfully with a soothing cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint. The herbal notes complement the bright lemony flavors.
Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime is a refreshing choice that won't overwhelm the dessert's delicate flavors.
Storage and Leftovers:
Refrigeration: Due to the nature of the creamy lemon filling, it's best to store any leftover slices in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or cover them with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other flavors in the fridge.
Consume Promptly: While this dessert can be stored for a day or two, it's at its best when enjoyed shortly after preparation. The crust may become softer over time, and the meringue-like topping may lose its texture.
Freezing: If you have a surplus of slices, they can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the freezer. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
