Lemon Custard Tartlets

Lemon Custard Tartlets

Introduction

If you love the refreshing taste of citrus combined with a rich, creamy texture, these Lemon Custard Tartlets are the perfect treat for you! With a buttery, flaky crust and a silky-smooth lemon custard filling, these tartlets offer the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, an afternoon tea, or just to satisfy your dessert cravings, these delightful little pastries will brighten your day with their zesty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Best of all, they are easy to prepare and make a stunning addition to any dessert table.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons cold water

For the Lemon Custard Filling:

• ¾ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 egg yolk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar
• Thin lemon slices
• Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. If needed, add a little more water.
3. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut circles to fit into tartlet molds or a muffin tin.
6. Press the dough into each mold, trim the edges, and prick the bottoms with a fork.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Custard Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the lemon juice, sugar, eggs, egg yolk, and cornstarch.
2. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to thicken.
3. Reduce heat to low and add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and butter. Continue stirring until the custard is smooth and thick.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Tartlets

1. Spoon the lemon custard into the cooled tartlet crusts, filling each one evenly.
2. Smooth the tops and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the custard to set.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

1. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
2. Garnish with thin lemon slices or a dollop of whipped cream for extra elegance.
3. Enjoy these tartlets chilled or at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.

Conclusion

These Lemon Custard Tartlets are the ultimate combination of buttery, crisp crust and velvety lemon custard. Their bright, tangy flavor makes them a refreshing and elegant dessert, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them as an afternoon indulgence, these tartlets are guaranteed to impress. Try them today and treat yourself to a bite of sunshine! 🍋✨