Monday, January 28, 2008

Daring Bakers Challenge #1 - Lemon Meringue Pie

This was my first Daring Bakers challenge. It was only a partial success for me because of the pie crust and the fact that my camera was not functioning on baking day. But, here's my recap, nonetheless. We were not allowed to deviate much from this recipe. This only really bothered me when it came to making the crust.

I love meringue pies, but I'm still not extremely adept at making pie crust. Cakes are typically more my thing. When I have made pie crust, I use a mixture of Crisco and butter to produce a nice, flaky crust. This crust contained only butter. I think it made the crust too soggy, and not stable whatsoever. During the baking process, one side of the crust ran into the bottom of the pan, and I had to perform an emergency rescue with it.

Aside from my pie crust problems, the rest of the pie came out perfectly. The lemon curd was a cinch to make on the stove top, and was robustly lemon flavored.

I don't know what makes everyone so scared of meringue. Mine whipped up in about 5 minutes with my trusty Kitchenaid mixer.

The recommendation to serve this pie immediately should be followed. After 24 hours, this pie was a watery mess (but still edible). It's like the pie "sweated" after sitting. Some have said this was due to the extra baking of the curd filling following completion on the stove top.

Next time I make this pie, I will use a butter/Crisco crust, and broil the meringue instead of baking it for 20 minutes. I have christened 2008 as the year I master pie baking. This was the first on a long road for me!

Check out next month for the surprise daring bakers challenge! I'll have my camera put together by then.

12 comments:

roopa said...

I've been so busy and out of town so much that I totally forgot to do this month's challenge. And last month's. Oooops.

I wish you had pictures for us to drool over!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on your first challenge. Sorry about the camera -- looking forward to seeing your photos next month.

Deborah said...

It sounds like your first challenge was a success!! And I prefer my crusts with a shortening/butter mixture, as well!

Big Boys Oven said...

Me too, my first challenge.... it was so hectic....lol!

Tracy said...

Congrats on completing your first challenge! I've been thinking that a shortening/butter mixture might have been better as well.

Andrea said...

Congrats on your first challenge! Sorry to hear about your camera, but hopefully we'll get to see some pics next time!

Unknown said...

What did you think of the taste?

Welcome to the Daring Bakers!

K8teebug said...

I thought the taste of it was awesome!

Gabi said...

Sorry about your camera and pie crust woes! I'll love to see those master pies this year. See you next month at the DBs.
xoxo

Lis said...

Welcome to the DB'ers, Kate!

Sounds like you had a decent pie to enjoy - even though the crust wasn't perfect. Still though, you kicked some lemon meringue heiney! hee!

Good luck with mastering the pie! I'll be coming back for some tips as I haven't gotten the hang of crust yet either. :)

xoxo

Dolores said...

What a great way to embark on your 'year of pie'. Congratulations on a successful inaugural challenge, and welcome to the daring bakers.

Unknown said...

Congrats on finishing your first challenge. Can't wait to see your next challenges when you've got your camera.