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Lovely Lemon Curd Tarts

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These Lovely Lemon Curd Tarts feature crisp, buttery tart shells filled with smooth and tangy homemade lemon curd. The refreshing citrus flavor paired with delicate pastry creates a perfectly balanced dessert that is both elegant and light. Ideal for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, holidays, or special occasions, these lemon curd tarts are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Ingredients

For the Tart Shells

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup powdered sugar

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

  • 1 egg yolk

  • 1–2 tablespoons cold water

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Curd Filling

  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • 3 large eggs

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed

Optional Garnish

  • Powdered sugar

  • Fresh berries

  • Whipped cream

  • Mint leaves

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a tart pan or mini tart pans.

  • In a bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.

  • Add the cold cubed butter and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  • Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough begins to come together.

  • Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.

  • Roll out the chilled dough and press it into tart pans, trimming any excess.

  • Prick the bottoms with a fork and bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden. Allow the shells to cool completely.

  • To make the lemon curd, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a saucepan.

  • Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

  • Remove from heat and stir in the butter until smooth and glossy.

  • Strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve if desired for a silky texture.

  • Spoon the lemon curd into the cooled tart shells and smooth the tops.

  • Refrigerate the tarts for at least 1 hour until the filling is set.

  • Before serving, garnish with powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, or mint leaves if desired.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.Chilling the dough helps create flaky, tender tart shells.Stir the lemon curd constantly while cooking to prevent curdling.Allow the tart shells to cool completely before filling to keep them crisp.