Lemon Curd Tartlets are a delightful dessert that combines the zesty freshness of lemon curd with the buttery crunch of tart shells. Perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these tartlets are as elegant as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With pre-made tart shells, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Zesty and Refreshing: The vibrant lemon flavor is perfectly balanced by the creamy curd.
- Impressive Presentation: These mini tartlets look stunning on any dessert table.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with different curds or toppings.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual brunch or a fancy dinner party, these tartlets fit the bill.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Tart shells (store-bought or homemade)
- Lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- Whipped cream or meringue (optional, for topping)
- Fresh fruit or zest (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare your tart shells if making them from scratch, or arrange pre-made shells on a tray.
- Fill each tart shell with lemon curd using a spoon or piping bag.
- Optional: Top the tartlets with whipped cream, meringue, or fresh fruit for added flavor and decoration.
- Chill the tartlets in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Serve cold and enjoy the vibrant lemony goodness!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 12 tartlets, depending on the size of your tart shells.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1-2 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Lime Curd Tartlets: Swap lemon curd for lime curd for a tangy twist.
- Berry Tartlets: Add a layer of berry compote before filling the shells with lemon curd.
- Chocolate-Lemon Tartlets: Drizzle melted chocolate over the tartlets for a rich flavor contrast.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tart shells to make this recipe accessible to everyone.
- Mini Cheesecake Tartlets: Mix cream cheese with lemon curd for a creamy filling.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the tartlets without whipped cream or fresh fruit toppings for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: These tartlets are best served cold and do not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I make the tart shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the tart shells in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
2. Is it better to use store-bought or homemade lemon curd?
Both work well! Homemade curd offers a fresher taste, while store-bought saves time.
3. Can I use other types of citrus?
Absolutely! Lime, orange, or even grapefruit curd are excellent alternatives.
4. How do I prevent the tartlets from getting soggy?
Ensure the tart shells are fully cooled and the curd is chilled before assembling.
5. What can I use instead of whipped cream for topping?
You can use meringue, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
6. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegan tart shells and a plant-based lemon curd recipe.
7. How long does lemon curd last in the fridge?
Homemade lemon curd typically lasts up to 1 week in an airtight container.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Certainly! Just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.
9. What’s the best way to pipe the lemon curd into the shells?
Use a piping bag with a round or star tip for neat and even filling.
10. Are these tartlets suitable for outdoor events?
Yes, but keep them chilled until serving to maintain their shape and freshness.
Conclusion
Lemon Curd Tartlets are the perfect bite-sized treat for anyone who loves a burst of citrusy flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these tartlets deliver a delightful combination of taste and texture. Try this easy recipe today and bring a touch of elegance to your dessert table!
PrintLemon Curd Tartlets
These delightful lemon curd tartlets are the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, nestled in buttery tart shells. Ideal for tea parties, celebrations, or as a refreshing dessert, they’re simple to make yet elegant enough to impress.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 tartlets 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Tart Shells:
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2–3 tbsp cold water
For the Lemon Curd:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
Prepare the Tart Shells:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and mix gently. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick.
- Cut out circles and press them into a mini tart pan or muffin tin. Trim any excess dough.
- Prick the bottom of each shell with a fork and bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
Make the Lemon Curd:
- In a heatproof bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
- Whisk continuously until the mixture thickens, about 8–10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in butter, a few pieces at a time, until smooth. Let the curd cool to room temperature.
Assemble the Tartlets:
- Spoon the lemon curd into the cooled tart shells, filling each to the top.
- Chill the tartlets in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to set the curd.
Notes
- For extra flair, garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Store the tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.