Why You’ll Love This French Lemon Cream Tart
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining!
- Perfect Balance: Sweet and tangy flavors come together beautifully.
- Velvety Texture: The lemon cream is silky, smooth, and oh-so-decadent.
- Show-Stopping Dessert: A simple yet impressive dessert to wow your guests.
Tools You’ll Need
- Fine mesh strainer
- Tart pan (9-inch) with removable bottom
- Food processor or mixing bowl
- Whisk and saucepan
French Lemon Cream Tart
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Description
Indulge in the bright and refreshing flavors of this French Lemon Cream Tart, a classic dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make. With its buttery, flaky tart crust and luscious, tangy lemon cream filling, this tart is perfect for any occasion—from dinner parties to afternoon tea. It’s the ultimate treat for citrus lovers!
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2–3 tablespoons cold water
For the Lemon Cream Filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened and cut into cubes
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Tart Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of cold water. Pulse until the dough comes together, adding another tablespoon of water if needed.
- Roll the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork.
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 5-7 minutes until golden. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Cream Filling
7. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Place over a pot of simmering water (double boiler setup).
8. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes.
9. Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove zest and ensure a smooth texture.
10. Gradually whisk in the softened butter, one piece at a time, until fully incorporated. The mixture will become creamy and glossy.
Step 3: Assemble the Tart
11. Pour the lemon cream into the cooled tart crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
12. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
13. Garnish with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Chill the Dough: Ensures a tender, flaky crust that holds its shape during baking.
- Whisk Constantly: When cooking the lemon cream, continuous whisking prevents curdling.
- Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh juice and zest provide the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Strain for Smoothness: Straining the lemon cream ensures a silky, professional texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store the tart in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Freeze: You can freeze the tart (without garnish) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a pre-made tart crust?
A: Yes! A pre-made tart shell works great if you’re short on time.
Q2: Can I substitute lime for lemon?
A: Absolutely! Lime juice and zest create a delightful twist on this classic tart.
Q3: Is the filling supposed to be so rich?
A: Yes, the butter gives it a luxurious, velvety texture. If you prefer less richness, you can reduce the butter slightly.
Conclusion: Citrus Bliss in Every Bite
This French Lemon Cream Tart is a dessert lover’s dream, with its tangy lemon filling and buttery crust. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, this tart is guaranteed to delight.
Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations!
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Savor every slice of this elegant and zesty tart, and enjoy the compliments it brings!
