Foolproof Pie Meringue

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon corn starch

2 tablespoons room-temperature water

1/2 cup boiling water

6 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 egg whites

pink of salt

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a saucepan, blend corn starch and 2 tablespoons water. Add boiling water and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until clear and thickened. Let stand until completely cold.

Meanwhile, beat egg whites at high speed until foamy. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff, but not dry. Turn mixer to low speed, add salt and vanilla. Gradually beat in cold cornstarch mixture. Turn mixer again to high speed and beat well. Spread meringue over cooled pie filling, sealing edges of pastry.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown. This meringue cuts beautifully and never gets sticky.