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Lemon meringue cupcakes topped with toasted meringue and garnished with lemon slices on a white plate

Bright & Zesty Lemon Meringue Cupcakes

These lemon meringue cupcakes offer a perfect balance of tangy citrus flavor, fluffy meringue, and a healthier twist, making them ideal for any occasion or dessert lover.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6 cupcakes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.2 dl (½ cup + 1 tbsp) all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 tsp baking powder
  • 0.125 tsp salt
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 0.75 dl (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) granulated sugar
  • 30 ml oil
  • 0.6 dl (¼ cup + 1 tbsp) milk
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 dl (75 g / ⅓ cup) granulated sugar for the lemon curd
  • 1.5 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 dl (4 tbsp) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 dl (100 ml / ⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) water
  • 40 g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter cubed
  • 0.25 tsp turmeric or yellow food coloring optional
  • 4 large egg whites (120 g / approx. 1.2 dl)
  • 1 cup (2.5 dl / 250 g) granulated sugar for the meringue

Instructions
 

  • Make the Lemon Curd: In a saucepan, whisk sugar and cornstarch. Add lemon juice and water, stirring until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and whisk in butter until fully melted. Chill.
  • Bake the Cupcakes: Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). In a bowl, whisk egg and sugar until pale and fluffy. Mix in oil and milk. Sift in dry ingredients and gently combine. Divide into cupcake liners. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Cool completely.
  • Prepare the Meringue: Gently whisk egg whites and sugar over a double boiler until sugar dissolves. Beat on high speed for 7-10 minutes until peaks form.
  • Assemble: Pipe curd into cooled cupcakes, then pipe meringue on top. Torch meringue until golden brown. Serve and enjoy!