French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

This French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd is a delightful dessert that combines a crisp buttery pastry crust with a zesty lemon curd filling. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to something special. The bright flavors and creamy texture make this tart truly stand out, leaving your guests impressed and satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Zesty Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or as an everyday treat.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this elegant tart at any event, and it will surely be the star of the dessert table.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the tart in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your French lemon tart comes out perfectly, having the right tools is essential. Below are the must-have items for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch tart pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes mixing the dough quick and efficient, ensuring a smooth consistency without overworking it.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin is essential for evenly spreading the dough to fit your tart pan perfectly.
• Tart pan: Using a tart pan with removable bottom allows for easy release of the finished tart, creating beautiful presentation slices.

Ingredients

This French lemon tart is made with a crisp buttery pastry crust and filled with a zesty and bright lemon curd filling and baked to perfection.

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 1/3 cup Flour
• 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
• 1/3 cup Powder sugar
• 1/2 cup Butter (cold, unsalted)
• 1 Egg (large)
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract

For the Lemon Curd Filling:

• 1/2 cup Lemon juice
• 2 tbsp Lemon zest
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup Butter (unsalted)
• 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
• 2 Eggs (large)
• 4 Egg yolks (large)

How to Make French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

Step 1: Make the Tart Dough

Start by making the tart dough. In a food processor, add the flour, powder sugar, and salt, mixing until combined.

Step 2: Add Butter

Add cold cubed butter, blending until pea-sized pieces form. If you don’t have a food processor, mix by hand using cold hands to incorporate butter into the flour mixture.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg Mixture

Add the egg and vanilla extract into the mixture. Combine until a dough forms but be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Chill Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Transfer chilled dough onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a circle before placing it in a 9-inch tart pan. Trim off excess edges and poke holes with a fork. Freeze for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Bake the Crust

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.

Now you’re ready to continue crafting your delicious French lemon tart! Enjoy every step as you create this delightful dessert masterpiece.

How to Serve French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

Serving your French lemon tart with lemon curd is a delightful way to enhance its zesty flavor. The tart’s crisp crust pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that elevate the dessert experience.

Pairing with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Sweet, juicy strawberries add a fresh contrast to the tart’s acidity.
• Raspberries: Their slight tartness complements the lemon flavor perfectly.
• Blueberries: Enjoy their subtle sweetness alongside each slice of lemon tart.

Adding Whipped Cream

• Classic Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it balances the tartness of the lemon curd.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Infuse vanilla or citrus zest for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A creamy companion that softens the tart’s brightness.
• Coconut Sorbet: Offers a refreshing and tropical note that pairs well with lemon.

Garnishing Options

• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing taste.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle on top enhances presentation and intensifies flavor.

How to Perfect French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

To create an exceptional French lemon tart with lemon curd, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure your tart turns out perfectly every time.

• Chill Your Ingredients: Using cold butter keeps the pastry flaky. Chill your egg as well for best results.
• Avoid Overmixing: When combining ingredients for the crust, mix just until combined to maintain tenderness.
• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed juice and zest provide a vibrant flavor compared to bottled options.
• Bake Evenly: Rotate your tart halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
• Cool Completely: Let your tart cool completely before slicing to maintain clean edges.

Best Side Dishes for French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

Pairing side dishes with your French lemon tart can enhance its overall appeal. Here are some excellent options that complement its bright flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brightens your dessert table.
2. Citrus Salad: Combining oranges, grapefruits, and pomelos brings out citrus notes in the tart.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese adds richness to balance acidity.
4. Chocolate Mousse: The creamy texture of chocolate mousse offers a luxurious contrast to the lemony freshness.
5. Shortbread Cookies: Their buttery crunch pairs nicely with the smooth filling of the tart.
6. Pistachio Crumble: The nutty crunch enhances texture while providing a unique flavor twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a French lemon tart can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold crust: Overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until combined and handle it as little as possible.
• Bold temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can burn the tart. Stick to 180°C (350°F) for an even bake.
• Bold chilling: Not chilling the dough long enough can result in shrinking during baking. Always chill for at least an hour.
• Bold measuring: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your filling. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold zesting: Forgetting the lemon zest means missing out on flavor. Always add zest for that extra zing in your lemon curd.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

• Oven: Preheat to 150°C (300°F) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet with a lid, warming gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd?

French lemon tart is a classic dessert featuring a buttery pastry crust filled with zesty lemon curd, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Can I customize the filling of my French Lemon Tart?

Absolutely! You can add different citrus juices or even berries to create unique flavors while maintaining that delicious lemony base.

How long does it take to make French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd?

The total time is about 180 minutes, including preparation and cooling time. It’s well worth the wait!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tart and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve it.

Final Thoughts

This French lemon tart w/ lemon curd is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with different citrus fruits or toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries. Give it a try; it’s sure to impress at any gathering!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of a homemade French Lemon Tart with Lemon Curd that’s sure to impress at any gathering. This delightful dessert features a buttery, crisp pastry crust filled with a luscious lemon curd made from fresh lemon juice and zest. Ideal for summer barbecues, holiday feasts, or simply as an everyday treat, this tart exudes elegance and taste. With its bright citrus notes and smooth texture, every slice promises to be a refreshing experience. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy quality moments with your guests while serving a show-stopping dessert.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/3 cups flour
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for filling)
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt (for filling)
• 2 large eggs (for filling)
• 4 large egg yolks (for filling)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the tart dough by combining flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add cold butter and blend until pea-sized pieces form.
2. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
3. Chill the dough wrapped in plastic for at least one hour.
4. Roll out the chilled dough into a circle on a floured surface. Fit it into a tart pan and freeze for 20 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes until lightly golden brown. Allow cooling.
6. For the filling, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, salt, eggs, and egg yolks over low heat until thickened.
7. Pour the lemon curd into the cooled crust and refrigerate until set.

• Prep Time: 60 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 110mg