Lemon Meringue Strawberry Shortcake

Ed Bradley

2 min read

·

14-12-2024

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The arrival of summer brings with it a bounty of fresh, vibrant fruits, and few pairings are as delightful as the combination of sweet strawberries and tangy lemon. This recipe elevates that classic pairing to new heights with a Lemon Meringue Strawberry Shortcake that's sure to impress. Forget the ordinary – this is a dessert that's both elegant and surprisingly easy to create.

A Balancing Act of Sweet and Tart

The beauty of this shortcake lies in its balance. The sweetness of perfectly ripe strawberries is expertly countered by the bright, zesty notes of lemon meringue. The soft, buttery shortcake provides the perfect foundation, offering a textural contrast that elevates the overall experience.

Ingredients You'll Need:

For the Shortcakes:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 3/4 cup milk

For the Lemon Meringue:

• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making the Shortcakes:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Preparing the Lemon Meringue:

1. Beat the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl until stiff peaks form.
2. Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating constantly until the meringue is glossy and stiff.
3. Gently fold in the lemon juice and zest.

Assembling the Strawberry Filling:

1. In a bowl, gently toss the sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

Putting it All Together:

1. Once the shortcakes have cooled slightly, split them in half horizontally.
2. Spread a generous layer of the strawberry filling onto the bottom halves of the shortcakes.
3. Top with a dollop of lemon meringue.
4. Cover with the top halves of the shortcakes.

A Dessert Fit for Any Occasion

This Lemon Meringue Strawberry Shortcake is more than just a dessert; it's an experience. Its vibrant flavors and delicate textures make it perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or a special occasion. The recipe is easily adaptable – feel free to experiment with different berries or add a touch of vanilla extract to the shortcake dough. Enjoy the sweet symphony of summer!