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Classic Lemon Tart Recipe

Classic Lemon Tart Recipe: Brighten Your Day with Zesty Goodness

This Classic Lemon Tart Recipe combines a buttery crust with zesty lemon curd, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: French
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Crust
  • 1 Fully Baked Tart Crust A flaky, homemade crust provides a delightful base for the creamy filling.
For the Lemon Curd
  • 2 Large Eggs Plus 2 egg yolks or use 3 whole eggs for a lighter texture.
  • ¾ cup Granulated Sugar Adjust for desired tartness.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Always use fresh lemons for maximum brightness.
  • ½ cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice Approximately 2-3 lemons for yield.
  • 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream Optional, for extra richness.
  • ½ cup Unsalted Butter Cut into small pieces, at room temperature for easy blending.

Equipment

  • heatproof bowl
  • Saucepan
  • spatula
  • Fine Mesh Sieve

Method
 

Step by Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Lemon Curd: In a heatproof bowl, combine 2 large eggs, 2 egg yolks, ¾ cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, and ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice. Place the bowl over a saucepan filled with simmering water (bain-marie). Whisk constantly for about 10–20 minutes until thickened, reaching a temperature of 170°F (75°C).
  2. Check Consistency: Continue whisking as the curd cooks. After about 15 minutes, check that it leaves a clear path when you run your finger through it and registers 170°F (75°C).
  3. Strain Mixture: Once thickened, remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove lumps.
  4. Incorporate Butter: Gradually whisk in ½ cup of room-temperature unsalted butter pieces until melted and smooth.
  5. Assemble the Tart: Pour the cooled lemon curd into the prepared tart crust and smooth the filling. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, slice and garnish with powdered sugar or fresh berries as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Continuous whisking while cooking is crucial to avoid scrambling the eggs. Adjust sweetness to taste before pouring into the crust.

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