A classic lemon tart is the perfect combination of a buttery, crisp crust and a smooth, tangy lemon filling. This dessert is both refreshing and indulgent, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you are serving it at a summer gathering, a dinner party, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of tea, this tart is sure to impress.
Lemon tarts date back to French pastry traditions, where the balance of sweetness and acidity creates an irresistible treat. The filling is made with fresh lemon juice, eggs, sugar, and butter, resulting in a silky, custard-like texture. The crust, often a shortcrust pastry, adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
This recipe will guide you through each step, from making the pastry dough to achieving the perfect consistency for the lemon curd filling. Follow along, and you’ll have a beautifully golden, citrus-infused tart ready to serve in no time. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp cold water
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the lemon filling:
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2/3 cup (160ml) fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
Directions
- Prepare the crust: In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, pulsing until the dough starts to come together.
- Chill and roll out: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch tart pan.
- Blind bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with baking beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 10 minutes until golden.
- Prepare the lemon filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, lemon juice, and zest. Slowly whisk in the melted butter until smooth.
- Bake the tart: Pour the filling into the baked crust. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until the filling is set but slightly wobbly in the center.
- Cool and serve: Allow the tart to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with powdered sugar or whipped cream if desired.
How to Prepare
- Crust preparation: Ensure all ingredients are cold before mixing. This prevents the butter from melting too quickly, keeping the crust flaky.
- Blind baking: This step ensures a crisp base that won’t get soggy once the filling is added.
- Lemon filling: Whisk the mixture thoroughly to create a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Baking time: Keep an eye on the tart while baking. Overbaking can lead to a rubbery texture, so it should still have a slight wobble when removed from the oven.
Preparation Time
- Crust preparation: 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Baking time: 35 minutes
- Cooling time: 2 hours
- Total time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 8 slices.
FAQs
1. Can I make the crust in advance? Yes, you can prepare the crust up to 2 days ahead and keep it refrigerated.
2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh? Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used if necessary.
3. How do I know when the tart is set? The tart should have a slight jiggle in the center when removed from the oven. It will firm up as it cools.
4. Can I freeze a lemon tart? Yes, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge before serving.
5. How do I prevent cracks in the filling? Avoid overbaking, and allow the tart to cool gradually to prevent cracks.
A classic lemon tart is an elegant yet simple dessert that brings together the best of sweet and tangy flavors. With a buttery crust and a silky lemon filling, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, following this recipe will help you create a stunning and delicious dessert every time.
This tart can be served plain or garnished with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for an extra special touch. Now that you have all the steps and tips, it’s time to get baking and enjoy this delightful lemon tart!