Description
These Lemon Curd Tartlets are delightful bite-sized desserts featuring a buttery, crisp tart shell filled with smooth, tangy lemon curd. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness, they make an elegant treat for any occasion, topped optionally with whipped cream, fresh berries, or mint leaves for added freshness and visual appeal. The recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward baking techniques, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
Scale
Tart Shell
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 1–2 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
- Mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare tart dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, pulse together the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar to combine. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Incorporate the egg yolk by pulsing again, and then gradually add ice water one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough begins to come together.
- Shape tart shells: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Press each portion firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a mini tart pan or muffin tin to create small tart shells. Prick the bottoms gently with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Chill dough: Chill the tart shells in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This relaxation step helps prevent shrinking during baking and maintains flaky texture.
- Bake tart shells: Place the chilled tart pans in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tart shells are lightly golden and fully set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Fill tartlets: Once the tart shells are cooled, spoon about 1 tablespoon of lemon curd into each shell, smoothing the tops evenly.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the filled tartlets for at least 30 minutes to set the lemon curd and enhance flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, garnish with your choice of whipped cream, fresh berries, or mint leaves for added texture, flavor, and visual appeal.
Notes
- You can save time by using pre-made tart shells; however, homemade tart shells provide a fresher, more buttery flavor.
- Making your own lemon curd will enhance the tartlets with a richer and more natural lemon flavor, but store-bought lemon curd works perfectly fine.
- These tartlets can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
