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Refreshing Lemon Tart Recipe

4.6 from 97 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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 23 lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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