No-Weep Meringue Topping
📜 Collection: UK2 | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Desserts A classic, foolproof recipe for a meringue topping that won’t weep or shrink. The secret is a simple cooked cornstarch base that stabilizes the egg whites for a perfect, stable meringue every time.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Inactive / Chill Time | Yield / Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 30 mins | None | Topping for one 9-inch pie |
🔪 Key Equipment
- small saucepan
- whisk
- electric mixer
- mixing bowl
- wire rack
Ingredients
Cornstarch Base
| Measurements | Ingredients | Prep / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Tbsp | Cornstarch | none |
| 2 Tbsp | Sugar | none |
| 1/2 cup | Water | none |
Meringue
| Measurements | Ingredients | Prep / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | Egg Whites | room temperature |
| Dash | Salt | none |
| 6 Tbsp | Sugar | none |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cornstarch Base
- In a small saucepan, whisk together 1 Tbsp cornstarch and 2 Tbsp sugar. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup water until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils and becomes clear and thick. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Whip and Assemble
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat 3 egg whites and a dash of salt with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- While beating, gradually add the warm cornstarch mixture to the egg whites. Continue beating until the mixture is thick and creamy.
- Gradually beat in the 6 Tbsp sugar, one tablespoon at a time, and continue beating on high speed until the meringue is very stiff, glossy, and the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Pile the meringue onto your prepared pie filling, spreading it to touch the edges of the crust all the way around to prevent shrinking.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 325°F, or until the meringue is set and golden brown.
- Let the pie cool slowly on a wire rack away from drafts.
💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: This meringue is best used immediately after preparation to ensure stability and prevent weeping. If necessary, store the finished pie in a cool, dry place away from humidity.
Original Recipe Scan
