Skip to main content

Mile-High Meringue Topping

This recipe yields an extraordinarily lofty topping. You may halve the recipe for a meringue with less volume. Either way, be sure to spread meringue until it completely covers the filling to prevent shrinking or “weeping.”

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes enough for one 9-inch pie

Ingredients

8 large egg whites
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    With an electric mixer on medium speed, whisk egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sugar. Increase speed and whisk until meringue is glossy and forms stiff peaks. Whisk in vanilla.

    Step 2

    Spoon meringue onto surface of the pie until it reaches the crust, then use an offset spatula to create a swirling pattern.

    Step 3

    If desired, use a kitchen torch to toast the meringue, moving flame back and forth until evenly browned. Or brown the meringue under the broiler, but keep an eye on it—a minute or two is all you need.

Martha Stewart's New Pies and Tarts
Read More
We’ve got baked cheddar and leek pasta, maple-mustard sheet-pan salmon, and a strawberry shortcake roll.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
Like spicy carrot rigatoni and weeknight-fancy ravioli with peas.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
The most efficient method takes less than an hour, but you might not even need it.
Think a Hugo spritz, a gin basil smash, and plenty more patio-ready pours.
Like lemony risotto and tandoori-style cauliflower.
From Italian wedding soup with escarole to green smoothies with kale.