When was lemon meringue pie popular?

Answered by Vince Keith

Lemon meringue pie gained popularity in the 1860s, as evidenced by its inclusion in cookbooks such as Common Sense in The Household – A Manual of Practical Housewifery by Marion Harland and The Godey’s Lady’s Book Receipts and Household Hints by Sarah Annie Frost. During this time, lemon meringue pie recipes began to appear nationwide, indicating its growing popularity among households across the country.

The 1860s marked a period of culinary innovation and experimentation in America. As the country continued to expand westward and new ingredients became more readily available, cooks and housewives began to incorporate these ingredients into their recipes. Lemons, in particular, became more accessible due to improved transportation and trade routes, and their bright, tangy flavor quickly captivated the palates of many.

The rise of lemon meringue pie can also be attributed to the increasing availability of ingredients such as sugar and eggs. As the Industrial Revolution progressed, these ingredients became more affordable and abundant, allowing for the creation of more elaborate and indulgent desserts. Lemon meringue pie, with its luscious lemon filling and fluffy meringue topping, perfectly captured the spirit of this culinary movement.

Furthermore, the popularity of lemon meringue pie can be seen in its inclusion in popular cookbooks of the time. Marion Harland’s Common Sense in The Household and Sarah Annie Frost’s The Godey’s Lady’s Book Receipts and Household Hints were influential publications that offered guidance and recipes to housewives across the country. The fact that both of these cookbooks featured lemon meringue pie recipes indicates that it had become a beloved and sought-after dessert in American households.

It is worth noting that the popularity of lemon meringue pie continued to grow throughout the late 19th century and into the 20th century. As more people became familiar with the dessert and its delicious combination of tart lemon curd and sweet meringue, it became a staple in many American kitchens. Lemon meringue pie was often served on special occasions and holidays, becoming a beloved tradition for families across the country.

In my personal experience, lemon meringue pie has always been a favorite dessert among my family and friends. I remember my grandmother making it for special occasions, and the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pie crust and tangy lemon filling would fill the house. The pie would be perfectly balanced, with the tartness of the lemon curd complemented by the sweet, airy meringue topping. Each bite would be a burst of flavor and texture, leaving us craving for more.

The popularity of lemon meringue pie can be traced back to the 1860s when it began making appearances in cookbooks nationwide. Its rise can be attributed to the increasing availability of ingredients, the culinary innovation of the time, and its inclusion in influential publications. Since then, lemon meringue pie has become a beloved dessert that continues to be enjoyed by many, standing the test of time as a classic American treat.