Luscious Lemon Meringue Delights

1. Prepare Lemon Filling

Start by combining the water, grated lemon zest, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.

2. Temper Egg Yolks

While the mixture heats, whisk the large egg yolks in a separate bowl until smooth. Once boiling, slowly add 0.5 cup of the hot water mixture to the egg yolks, whisking continuously to temper them and prevent curdling.

3. Combine Mixtures

Pour the yolk mixture back into the pan and cook for about a minute until it becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

4. Add Lemon Juice, Gelatin, Sweetener, and Butter

Stir in the fresh lemon juice, gelatin (which should have been allowed to gel for about 2 minutes), powdered erythritol sweetener, and unsalted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

5. Add Xanthan Gum

Sprinkle in the xanthan gum and whisk vigorously to combine everything evenly.

6. Prepare Ramekins

Divide the lemon filling among four 4-inch ramekins or baking cups and let them cool on the counter before moving on to the meringue.

7. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F.

8. Prepare Meringue

In a large bowl, beat the large egg whites, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes frothy.

9. Add Sweeteners

Slowly add the powdered and granulated erythritol sweeteners while continuing to beat the egg whites. This gradual addition helps to stabilize the meringue. Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form, and then blend in the vanilla extract.

10. Top Lemon Filling with Meringue

Dollop the meringue onto the cooled lemon filling in each ramekin. Use a spoon to spread and swirl the meringue, ensuring it reaches the edges of the ramekins.

11. Bake Meringue

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the meringue is golden and just firm to the touch.

12. Cool and Chill

Allow the pies to cool for about 20 minutes before transferring them to the refrigerator. Let them chill for at least 3 hours to set the filling and meringue together perfectly. Enjoy your Luscious Lemon Meringue Delights!