There’s just something magical about making desserts, isn’t there? The way ingredients come together to create something sweet and delightful is pure joy! Today, I’m excited to share with you my absolute favorite: the ultimate classic lemon tart recipe. This tart has become a staple in my kitchen, and trust me, it’s a showstopper! The buttery crust pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon filling, creating a balance that’s simply irresistible. I love how simple it is to whip up, yet it feels elegant enough for any occasion. Every time I pull it out of the oven, the smell of fresh lemons fills the air, and I can’t help but smile. Let’s dive into this zesty adventure together!
Ingredients for the Ultimate Classic Lemon Tart Recipe
To create this delightful lemon tart, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that work wonders together. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for that touch of sweetness in the crust)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to balance the flavors)
- 1 large egg yolk (helps bind the crust perfectly)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (the star of the show!)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest (for an extra burst of flavor)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (to sweeten the filling)
- 3 large eggs (providing richness and structure)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, creamy texture)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set for a zesty baking adventure!
How to Prepare the Ultimate Classic Lemon Tart Recipe
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get started on this lemony masterpiece! I promise you, the process is easier than you might think, and the results are oh-so-rewarding. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be savoring that delightful tart in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
First, we’re going to mix our crust! In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Use a fork or your fingers to blend until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse sand. Then, add the egg yolk and mix until a dough forms. It should come together nicely—don’t overwork it! Now, shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for keeping that crust flaky!
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and press it into your tart pan. Make sure to evenly cover the edges. Bake the crust for around 20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. This step is so important because a perfectly baked crust sets the stage for your luscious filling!
Step 3: Make the Lemon Filling
While the crust is cooling, it’s time to whip up the lemon filling! In a separate bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, eggs, and heavy cream. Make sure to whisk vigorously until everything is well combined and smooth. This filling is where all that zesty goodness comes from, so enjoy the process!
Step 4: Bake the Tart
Now, pour that bright yellow filling into your baked crust, spreading it evenly. Pop it back into the oven and bake for another 25 minutes or until the filling is set and just slightly jiggly in the center. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be beyond amazing!
Tips for Success with the Ultimate Classic Lemon Tart Recipe
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing—this helps create a smooth crust.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes; this keeps the crust flaky and prevents it from shrinking while baking.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor—trust me, it’s worth it!
- Don’t overbake the tart; it should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center for that perfect texture.
- Serve chilled for the most refreshing taste, and consider garnishing with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence!
Nutritional Information for the Ultimate Classic Lemon Tart Recipe
Curious about what’s in this delicious lemon tart? Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values per slice:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 20g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy every zesty bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ultimate classic lemon tart recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a joy to make! Here’s why I think you’ll adore it:
- Quick preparation—whip it up in just over an hour!
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
- Perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors that brighten any day.
- Impressive enough for gatherings but easy enough for weeknight desserts.
- Chill and serve for a refreshing treat that’s perfect in any season!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
FAQ About the Ultimate Classic Lemon Tart Recipe
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about this delightful lemon tart:
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, you can use bottled in a pinch. Just know that the taste won’t be quite as vibrant!
How do I know when the tart is done?
The tart is ready when the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up as it cools!
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for making a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to serve it?
I love serving it chilled, garnished with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence!
Can I freeze the lemon tart?
While I don’t recommend freezing the whole tart, you can freeze slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your leftover lemon tart, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. There’s no need to reheat—just serve it chilled for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy every zesty bite!
Imprimer
Ultimate Classic Lemon Tart Recipe: 5 Zesty Secrets Revealed
- Temps Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Rendement: 8 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
The ultimate classic lemon tart recipe with a buttery crust and tangy lemon filling.
Ingrédients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, butter, powdered sugar, and salt until crumbly.
- Add the egg yolk and mix until dough forms.
- Press the dough into a tart pan and chill for 30 minutes.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and cream.
- Pour the filling into the baked crust.
- Bake for another 25 minutes until set.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve chilled for the best flavor.
- Can be topped with whipped cream or fresh berries.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Temps De Préparation: 30 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 45 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: French
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sucre: 20g
- De Sodium: 150mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 9g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 3g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 30g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 3g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 80mg
Mots-clés: ultimate classic lemon tart recipe, lemon dessert, tart recipe
