Refreshing Lemon Tart Recipe
A classic and refreshing Lemon Tart featuring a buttery, flaky crust filled with a smooth, tangy lemon custard. This dessert balances a perfect sweetness with zesty citrus, ideal for any occasion.
- Author: Sophie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
For the Tart Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water (as needed)
For the Lemon Custard Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- Prepare the Tart Crust: In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water a little at a time until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
- Blind Bake the Crust: Roll out the chilled dough and fit it into a tart pan. Prick the base with a fork, line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, then remove weights and bake another 10 minutes until golden. Let cool.
- Make the Lemon Custard: Whisk eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and melted butter until fully combined.
- Fill and Bake: Pour the lemon custard into the cooled tart shell. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the tart to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill thoroughly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for best flavor and zest the lemons before juicing.
- Blind baking prevents the crust from getting soggy when filled with custard.
- For a sharper lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon extract.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Keywords: lemon tart, lemon custard, tart crust, lemon dessert, classic French dessert