French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

This French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd is a delightful treat that combines a crisp, buttery pastry crust with a vibrant and zesty lemon curd filling. Perfect for any occasion, this tart will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Its bright flavor profile makes it an ideal dessert for warm days or festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious tart.
• Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest ensure every bite is bursting with citrus goodness.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it at parties, family gatherings, or as a lovely end to a cozy dinner at home.
• Beautiful Presentation: The elegant appearance of the tart makes it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different citrus flavors or toppings to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your French lemon tart efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the must-have tools that will make your baking experience smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Rolling pin
• Tart pan (9-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool helps in quickly mixing the dough while ensuring the butter remains cold and in small pieces for a flaky crust.
• Tart pan: A sturdy tart pan provides the perfect shape and depth for your tart, making it easier to cut neat slices after baking.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough evenly, ensuring a consistent thickness throughout the crust.

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 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: Prepare the Tart Dough

Start by making the tart dough. In a food processor, add the flour, powdered sugar, and salt, then mix until combined.

Step 2: Incorporate Butter

Add cold cubed butter into the mixture. Blend until you achieve pea-sized pieces of butter. If you don’t have a food processor, you can do this by hand; just ensure your hands are cold.

Step 3: Add Egg Mixture

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

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This helps firm up the butter for a flaky crust.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Transfer chilled dough onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a circle using your rolling pin. Place it into your greased 9-inch tart pan, trimming off any excess edges. Use a fork to poke holes in the bottom and freeze for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and allow it to cool while preparing the filling.

How to Serve French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

Serving your French lemon tart with lemon curd can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement the vibrant flavors of the tart.

Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of color and freshness. Their natural sweetness balances the tartness of the lemon.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top adds a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the zesty filling.

Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves not only enhance presentation but also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tart.

Ice Cream

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet for a cool and creamy finish that enhances the citrus notes.

Citrus Zest Garnish

• A sprinkle of additional lemon zest on top gives an extra pop of color and flavor, making your presentation even more appealing.

Tea or Coffee

• Pairing your tart with a cup of herbal tea or coffee can balance the sweetness and create a delightful end to any meal.

How to Perfect French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

To achieve the perfect French lemon tart with lemon curd, consider these helpful tips that ensure a flawless result every time.

• Chill Your Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps prevent shrinkage during baking, ensuring a nice shape for your tart crust.
• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide brighter flavors compared to bottled alternatives, enhancing the overall taste.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your crust while it bakes. It should be golden brown but not overly dark; this ensures optimal flavor and texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: When combining ingredients for the filling, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can lead to unwanted air bubbles in your curd.
• Strain Your Curd: Straining the lemon curd eliminates any lumps and ensures a silky-smooth texture for your filling.
• Cool Completely: Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing. This helps set both the crust and filling for cleaner slices.

Best Side Dishes for French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

Pairing side dishes with your French lemon tart can enhance its delectable flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the tart.
2. Chocolate Mousse: The rich, velvety texture complements the tart’s brightness and creates a harmonious dessert experience.
3. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds variety and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dessert.
4. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like mascarpone or goat cheese pair beautifully with citrus desserts, adding creaminess without overwhelming flavors.
5. Pistachio Cookies: These nutty cookies add crunchy texture and offer subtle sweetness that pairs nicely with lemon.
6. Honey Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, honey, and granola make for a light yet satisfying side that complements citrus well.
7. Scones: Flaky scones can serve as an elegant pairing, especially when served with clotted cream or fruit preserves.
8. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons add another layer of flavor while maintaining a light finish alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a French lemon tart can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Using warm butter: Always use cold butter when making the tart crust. Warm butter can melt and lead to a soggy crust.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing makes the crust tough instead of tender.
• Skipping chilling time: Allowing the dough to chill in the fridge is crucial. It helps maintain the shape while baking and ensures a flaky texture.
• Not pre-baking the crust: Pre-baking prevents a soggy bottom. Ensure you bake until the crust is light golden brown.
• Ignoring zest: Lemon zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it or use only lemon juice; both are important for depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your French lemon tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It can be kept for up to 3 days without losing flavor.

Freezing French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The tart can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tart on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds on medium power, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, covering with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, checking often.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd?

French lemon tart with lemon curd is a classic dessert featuring a buttery pastry crust filled with smooth, tangy lemon curd.

How do I make lemon curd from scratch?

To make lemon curd, combine fresh lemon juice, sugar, eggs, and butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until thickened.

Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with different citrus juices or use alternative sweeteners if desired while maintaining the overall structure of the recipe.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The total time for preparing French lemon tart w/ lemon curd is approximately 180 minutes, including chilling and baking time.

Final Thoughts

This French lemon tart w/ lemon curd is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits or adjusting sweetness levels based on your preference. Give this delightful dessert a try; it’s sure to impress!

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French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

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

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing taste of this French Lemon Tart with Lemon Curd, a perfect blend of a crisp, buttery crust and a vibrant lemon curd filling. This delightful dessert is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to impress at any gathering or provide a sweet finish to a cozy dinner at home. With its bright citrus flavor, this tart is ideal for warm days or festive occasions. Plus, its stunning presentation makes it a beautiful centerpiece on any dessert table.

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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 fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 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 cubed butter and pulse until pea-sized pieces form.
2. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until a dough forms. Chill the dough wrapped in plastic wrap for at least one hour.
3. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface, place it into a greased tart pan, poke holes in the bottom, and freeze for 20 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes until lightly golden brown. Allow it to cool.
5. For the lemon curd filling, whisk together fresh lemon juice, zest, granulated sugar, butter, salt, eggs, and egg yolks in a saucepan over low heat until thickened.
6. Pour the curd into the cooled crust and allow it to set before slicing.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 110mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 90mg