Ingredients:
- 3 large egg yolks (50g)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, finely grated
- 3 large egg whites (90g)
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar in the top of a double boiler (or heatproof bowl set over simmering water).
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, and butter.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the curd thickens (8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat, transfer to a bowl, and cover the surface with plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 200°F (95°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, beating well after each addition.
- Continue beating until the meringue is glossy, stiff, and holds its shape.
- Fold in the vanilla extract.
- Transfer the meringue to a piping bag and pipe 6 large clouds onto the baking sheet.
- Make a small well in the center of each cloud.
- Spoon chilled lemon curd into the wells.
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meringues are firm and very lightly golden.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the meringues cool completely in the oven.
- Carefully remove the meringues from the parchment paper.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.