Description
Classic Lemon Tart is a timeless dessert featuring a crisp, buttery crust paired with a smooth, tangy lemon filling. Perfectly balanced sweet and tart flavors make it ideal for any occasion. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps allow home bakers to create an elegant treat. This tart can be made ahead and served chilled for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust:
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
9 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg yolk
2–3 tablespoons ice water
For the Lemon Filling:
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 large egg yolks
¾ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ cup heavy cream
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Make the crust: In a food processor, pulse flour, powdered sugar, and salt until combined. Add cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the egg yolk and ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough comes together.
3. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and press into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim edges.
5. Prick the bottom with a fork, line with parchment, and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
6. Blind bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights and parchment, then bake for another 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.
7. Make the filling: In a large bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, egg yolks, lemon juice, zest, cream, and salt until smooth.
8. Pour filling into the cooled tart crust.
9. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
10. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
– Gluten-free crust: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
– Vegan option: Substitute butter with coconut oil, use flax egg, and coconut cream.
– Add orange zest for citrus twist.
– Add fresh thyme or basil for herbal notes.
– Reduce sugar for less sweetness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice