Lemon Custard Tart

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings sunshine to your table, then this Lemon Custard Tart is just what you need! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I can’t wait to share it with you. The combination of the buttery shortcrust base and the zesty lemon custard filling makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends and family, this tart is sure to impress everyone.

The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! You’ll find that its bright flavor is perfect for spring and summer but delicious any time of year when you crave something refreshing. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, this tart comes together quickly, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-friendly: The sweet yet tangy flavor appeals to kids and adults alike, ensuring smiles all around.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance, freeing up your time on special occasions.
• Bright & refreshing: The zesty lemon filling brings a burst of freshness that brightens any meal or gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shortcrust Base:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 2–3 tablespoons cold water

For the Lemon Custard Filling:

• 1½ cups whole milk
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• Zest of 1 lemon
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

One of the great things about this Lemon Custard Tart is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or the season. Here are a few ideas:

• Add berries: Top your tart with fresh raspberries or blueberries for an extra fruity twist.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different citrus zest, like lime or orange, for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delightful alternative.
• Try different sweeteners: Swap granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup to give it a new dimension.

How to Make Lemon Custard Tart

Step 1: Make the Crust

To begin, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cutting in cold butter until your mixture resembles coarse crumbs is key; this creates that flaky texture we all love. Once combined, add the egg yolk and cold water gradually until the dough holds together. Press this into your tart pan or square cake pan and chill it in the refrigerator for about 20–30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent shrinkage during baking!

Step 2: Pre-bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pricking the crust base with a fork allows steam to escape as it bakes. Bake it for about 12–15 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Letting it cool slightly before adding the filling ensures that everything bakes evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Custard

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth. Gradually add in the milk while whisking continuously—this prevents lumps from forming! Stir constantly until thickened; this step is crucial as it gives our custard its lovely silky texture. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, butter, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 4: Bake the Tart

Pour that luscious custard into your pre-baked crust. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until just set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures it’s perfectly creamy!

Once done, let it cool completely before slicing into pieces. Serve chilled or at room temperature; either way tastes heavenly!

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Lemon Custard Tart!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Custard Tart

Making a perfect Lemon Custard Tart is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter and water ensures that your crust remains flaky and tender. This is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Don’t skip chilling the crust: Chilling the crust before baking prevents it from shrinking and helps maintain its shape. A well-formed crust means better presentation!

• Whisk constantly while cooking: This prevents the custard from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan and creates a smooth, lump-free filling. Consistency is key for that creamy texture!

• Bake until just set: The tart should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to firm up as it cools, giving you that perfect custard consistency without being overcooked.

• Allow it to cool completely: Patience is a virtue! Letting your tart cool completely before slicing ensures clean cuts and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Lemon Custard Tart

Serving your Lemon Custard Tart can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, enhancing that beautiful lemon color.
• Fresh berries: Raspberries or blueberries not only provide a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the tart’s zingy flavor.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint can brighten up your presentation and add a refreshing herbal note.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free alternative offers a rich, fluffy accompaniment that balances the tartness of the lemon. Simply whip chilled coconut cream until fluffy and enjoy!
• Lemon sorbet: For an extra citrus kick, serve with lemon sorbet. Its icy texture and tangy flavor make for an invigorating contrast to the creamy custard.
• Shortbread cookies: These buttery treats are perfect for dipping into the lemon custard or enjoying on the side. Their crunchiness adds another layer of texture.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits can enhance your dessert table while providing additional freshness alongside each slice of tart.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable dessert experience with your Lemon Custard Tart! Enjoy every zesty bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Custard Tart is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip it up in advance for gatherings or just to enjoy throughout the week. Its delightful flavor only improves after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for planning ahead.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
• Keep any leftover slices covered to maintain their texture and flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole tart tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• This tart is best served chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat.
• If you prefer a warm dessert, consider lightly warming individual slices in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Lemon Custard Tart:

Can I use a different type of milk for my Lemon Custard Tart?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy alternatives. Just ensure that they are unsweetened for the best flavor balance.

What makes this Lemon Custard Tart so creamy?

The creaminess comes from a combination of egg yolks and cornstarch, which work together to create a smooth custard texture that’s perfectly balanced with lemon’s zesty brightness.

How should I serve my Lemon Custard Tart?

Your Lemon Custard Tart is delightful on its own, but you can garnish it with fresh berries or whipped coconut cream for an extra touch.

Can I make this tart gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking to enjoy a gluten-free version of this delicious dessert.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to make this lovely Lemon Custard Tart! Its bright flavors and creamy texture make it such a special treat, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a slice yourself, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy baking!