Low-Carb Lemon Meringue Parfaits

Step 1Make the crumb base. Preheat oven to 160 °C/ 320 °F (fan assisted), or 180 °C/ 355 °F (conventional). Combine all crumb base ingredients, except lemon zest.

Step 2Spread out in an even layer on a lined oven tray and bake for 15 to 20 minutes (mine took 15 minutes). You need to keep an eye on your crumb as it can go from blonde, to perfectly browned, to burnt to a crisp in a very short time. Stir occasionally to help with even browning.

Step 3When browned slightly and crispy, remove from the oven and stir the lemon zest through while still hot. The crumbs will crisp up while cooling. Leave to cool completely.

Step 4Make the lemon curd. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Remove the pan from the heat and add the lemon juice, sweeteners and lemon zest. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well in between. Note: This recipe uses Xylitol and Erythritol. Check tips in the recipe for alternatives.

Step 5Return to the stove and cook over a low heat. Whisk continuously until the curd starts to thicken. Taste for sweetness and add additional sweetener, if desired.

Step 6Remove from the heat and let cool slightly. Strain through a fine mesh strainer and leave to cool completely.

Step 7Place a layer of cling wrap directly on the surface of the curd to stop an ugly skin forming. You can add a touch of gelatine to your curd during the cooking process, if you are worried that it won’t set, but I have never had to. It’s up to you.

Step 8Make the meringue. Make sure that your mixing bowl and beaters are scrupulously clean. Place egg whites into the mixing bowl and whisk on high until they are aerated and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and cream of tartar and beat well. Slowly add the Xylitol and Erythritol, one tablespoon at a time, ensuring that each spoonful is dissolved before adding the next. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Step 9Assemble the parfaits. Select some pretty parfait glasses like these. Spoon a layer of crumb base into the bottom of each. Add a layer of lemon curd. Spoon a layer of unsweetened whipped cream on top of the lemon curd. Add another layer each of crumb base and lemon curd. Top with a luxurious layer of the meringue. Use a spoon to swirl the meringue into peaks to assist with the browning. I used a blow torch to brown mine, but you could also pop them into the oven at 175 °C/ 350 °F (fan assisted), or 195 °C/ 380 °F (conventional) until the top browns.

Step 10Serve or store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Step 11Please note that glass and heat do not always mix well. So please be cautious when browning your meringue in either way as there is always a small chance that the thin parfait glass may break.