In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1¼ cups of sifted flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cut in ½ cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1 large egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of ice water until the dough takes shape. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes to firm up.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) as the dough chills. On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the base of the crust with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment, baking for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is golden. Allow it to cool slightly before adding the filling.

In a heatproof bowl, combine 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 1¼ cups of granulated sugar, and 4 large egg yolks. Place the bowl over simmering water and whisk constantly for about 10 minutes or until the mixture thickens significantly. Remove from heat and stir in 6 tablespoons of cubed unsalted butter until smooth. Let the filling cool slightly before pouring it into the pre-baked crust.

Using a clean mixing bowl, beat 4 large egg whites with ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add ¾ cup of granulated sugar while continuing to beat, elevating speed until stiff, glossy peaks form. Whisk in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the meringue’s flavor, creating a luscious topping for your Lemon Meringue Pie.

Spread the meringue over the warm lemon filling, carefully sealing it to the edges of the crust to prevent shrinking. Bake the assembled pie at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden and beautifully puffed. Keep an eye on it to achieve that perfect golden hue.

Allow the Lemon Meringue Pie to cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Once cooled, place it in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours to fully chill and set. This waiting time allows all the delightful flavors to meld together, making every slice of your pie a refreshing treat!