Mini Lemon Tarts

Mini Lemon Tarts

Ingredients:

For the Tart Shells:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1-2 tablespoons ice water

For the Lemon Curd:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tart Shells:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a food processor, pulse together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt until combined.
   • Add the cold cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add the egg yolk and pulse a few times. If the dough is too dry, add ice water one tablespoon at a time until the dough just comes together.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gather it into a ball. Flatten into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
   • Roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles slightly larger than your mini tart pans (or muffin tin) and press the dough into the pans.
   • Prick the bottoms of the tart shells with a fork to prevent puffing. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Lemon Curd:
   • In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until smooth.
   • Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 7-10 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter until smooth and fully incorporated.
   • Strain the lemon curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any lumps. Allow to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Tarts:
   • Spoon the lemon curd into the cooled tart shells, filling them to the top.
   • Refrigerate the tarts for at least 1 hour to set.
4. Serve:
   • Before serving, dust the tops of the tarts with powdered sugar.
   • Garnish with a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon if desired.

Enjoy these delightful and tangy mini lemon tarts as a refreshing dessert or snack!