Lemon Custard Tart
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like sunshine on a plate, this Lemon Custard Tart is just what you need! It’s one of my all-time favorites because it perfectly marries a buttery crust with a luscious lemon filling. Whenever I make this tart, it brings smiles to faces, whether it’s at a family gathering or just a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, the refreshing citrus flavor is perfect for any occasion, especially when the weather starts warming up!
This tart isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll feel like a pastry chef in no time. Trust me, once you try this Lemon Custard Tart, it will become your go-to dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Zesty Flavor: The balance of sweet and tangy makes every bite refreshing.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive dessert.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic or a holiday dinner, this tart fits right in!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and let it chill – it’s even better the next day!
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this delightful treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delightful Lemon Custard Tart!
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
This Lemon Custard Tart is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:
- Add Fresh Berries: Top the custard with raspberries or blueberries for extra flavor and color.
- Try Different Citrus: Substitute lime or orange juice for a twist on the classic lemon flavor.
- Make It Mini: Use a muffin tin to create individual tarts – perfect for parties!
- Infuse with Herbs: Add some fresh mint or basil into the custard for an aromatic surprise.
How to Make Lemon Custard Tart
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Then cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step creates that flaky texture we love! Add in the egg yolk and cold water—mix until the dough comes together. Press it into your tart pan or square cake pan and chill for about 20–30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent shrinkage while baking.
Step 2: Pre-bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prick the crust base with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking. Bake it for 12–15 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Allowing it to cool slightly ensures that your filling won’t melt into a soggy crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Custard
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, and egg yolks. Gradually add in the milk while whisking continuously—this keeps everything smooth! Cook until thickened; this step is crucial as it creates that delightful custard texture. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, butter, and vanilla until silky smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Tart
Pour that luscious custard into your pre-baked crust. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until just set but slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures it’s creamy and not overcooked.
Once baked, allow your tart to cool completely before slicing. It’s best served chilled but can be enjoyed at room temperature too!
Now you’re ready to share this wonderful Lemon Custard Tart with friends and family! Enjoy every last bite!
Pro Tips for Making Lemon Custard Tart
Creating the perfect Lemon Custard Tart is all about attention to detail and a little extra care. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve that delightful balance of flavors and textures!
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Use cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter and water helps create a flaky crust by preventing the fat from melting too quickly, which keeps the tart tender and light.
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Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the crust before baking helps it hold its shape during the pre-bake process. It prevents shrinking and ensures a beautiful, even base for your tart.
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Whisk continuously: When preparing the lemon custard, make sure to whisk constantly while cooking to avoid any lumps. This will help achieve that silky-smooth texture we all love in a custard.
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Check for doneness carefully: The custard should be slightly jiggly in the center when done. It will continue to set as it cools, so be careful not to overbake, which can lead to a rubbery texture.
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Let it cool completely: Allowing your tart to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This helps the custard firm up and makes for cleaner cuts, ensuring a stunning presentation.
How to Serve Lemon Custard Tart
Presenting your Lemon Custard Tart beautifully can elevate your dessert experience! Here are some creative ways to serve this zesty delight that will impress your guests and family alike.
Garnishes
- Fresh berries: A handful of vibrant strawberries or blueberries adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the tartness of the lemon.
- Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream can add richness while keeping it dairy-free, enhancing the creaminess of the tart.
- Mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds an aromatic touch that brightens up both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
- Mixed green salad with vinaigrette: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in a citrus vinaigrette balances out the sweetness of the tart and refreshes your palate.
- Lemon sorbet: This icy treat echoes the lemon flavor in your tart, making for a refreshing dessert duo that’s perfect for warm days.
- Coconut macaroons: These chewy coconut treats provide a lovely contrast in texture while subtly complementing the lemon custard’s flavor.
- Fruit compote: A warm berry or stone fruit compote drizzled over your slice can add another layer of sweetness and acidity that pairs beautifully with lemon.
Enjoy creating this delightful Lemon Custard Tart! It’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Lemon Custard Tart is a fantastic option for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment. Its delightful flavors only get better with time!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing.
- Cover the tart with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
- Wrap individual slices or the whole tart tightly in plastic wrap.
- Then, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
- If you prefer your tart warmed slightly, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overheat and lose its creamy texture.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making a Lemon Custard Tart:
Can I use a different type of citrus in this Lemon Custard Tart?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
How do I know when my Lemon Custard Tart is done baking?
The tart is ready when the custard is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
What should I serve with my Lemon Custard Tart?
A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with this tart, enhancing its refreshing flavor profile.
Can I make this Lemon Custard Tart dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute whole milk with a plant-based milk alternative such as almond or coconut milk, and ensure your butter is dairy-free as well.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this Lemon Custard Tart! Its bright, zesty flavor and creamy texture make it a truly special dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking!
Lemon Custard Tart
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the delightful brightness of a Lemon Custard Tart, a dessert that captures the essence of sunny days on your plate. This elegant tart features a buttery shortcrust base enveloping a smooth, tangy lemon custard filling. Perfect for any gathering or cozy night in, its refreshing citrus flavor invites smiles and satisfaction with every bite. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen as you whip up this impressive dessert. Serve it chilled or at room temperature to enjoy its creamy texture to the fullest!
Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 2–3 tablespoons cold water
- 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
Instructions
- To make the crust: Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Mix in egg yolk and cold water until dough forms. Press into a tart pan and chill for 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prick crust with a fork; bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. Cool slightly.
- For the custard: In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, and egg yolks. Gradually add milk while whisking over medium heat until thickened. Stir in lemon juice, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour custard into the crust; bake for 25-30 minutes until set but jiggly in center. Cool completely before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
