French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

This French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd is a delightful dessert that combines a buttery, crisp pastry crust with a bright and zesty lemon curd filling. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner party, or simply a treat for yourself, this tart brings a burst of sunshine to your table. Its unique combination of textures and flavors will impress anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this lemon tart is simple enough for beginners yet satisfying for experienced bakers.
• Refreshing Flavor: The tangy lemon curd filling offers a refreshing taste that balances perfectly with the sweet crust.
• Versatile Dessert: Suitable for various occasions, you can serve it at tea time, special celebrations, or as a light dessert after dinner.
• Impressive Presentation: The elegant appearance of the tart makes it an eye-catching centerpiece on any dessert table.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit to enhance its flavor and appearance.

Tools and Preparation

To make the French lemon tart successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Gather these before starting your recipe for smooth sailing in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the process of mixing ingredients for the crust, ensuring an even consistency.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to fit your tart pan without tearing.
• Tart pan: Provides the perfect shape and structure for your lemon tart, making it easy to slice and serve.

Ingredients

This French lemon tart is made with a crisp buttery pastry crust and filled with a zesty and bright lemon curd filling 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: Make the Tart Dough

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

Step 2: Combine Butter with Dry Ingredients

Add cold cubed butter. Blend until you have pea-sized pieces of butter. If you don’t have a food processor, you can mix by hand using cold hands.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms but be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least one hour.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough & Prepare Pan

Transfer the chilled dough onto a floured surface. Roll it into a circle then place it into your 9-inch tart pan. Cut off any extra edges. Poke holes in the bottom with a fork and 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 golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.

How to Serve French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

The French lemon tart is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its zesty flavor. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Add a medley of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries on the side for a burst of color and natural sweetness.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the tartness of the lemon curd perfectly.

Mint Leaves

• Garnish each slice with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing aroma and a pop of green color.

Ice Cream

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla or lemon sorbet to create a delicious contrast in flavors and temperatures.

Fruit Sauce

• Drizzle some berry or passion fruit sauce over the tart for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar on top not only looks beautiful but also adds a hint of sweetness to each bite.

How to Perfect French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

Achieving the perfect French lemon tart requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this classic dessert.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Always use cold butter and eggs, as they help create a flaky crust and smooth filling.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent tough dough.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain its structure during baking, resulting in a better texture.
• Test for Doneness: The tart is done when it’s set but still slightly wobbly in the center; it will firm up as it cools.
• Let It Cool: Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing; this ensures clean edges and better presentation.

Best Side Dishes for French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

Pairing your French lemon tart with complementary dishes can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some excellent side dish options:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that pairs well with the tart’s citrus flavor.
2. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses such as goat cheese or brie for contrasting creamy textures.
3. Almond Cookies: These crunchy treats offer a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the lemon tart.
4. Pistachio Crumble: A sprinkle of crushed pistachios brings both crunch and an earthy taste to each slice.
5. Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich chocolate ganache provides a decadent contrast to the bright lemon curd.
6. Coconut Macaroons: These sweet coconut treats add chewiness and tropical notes that complement citrus desserts.
7. Meringue Kisses: Light and airy meringues add an elegant touch while echoing the tart’s lightness.
8. Herbed Biscotti: Savory biscotti made with herbs can balance out the sweetness, creating an interesting combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a French lemon tart can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your results.

• Using warm butter: Using warm butter can lead to a greasy crust. Always use cold, unsalted butter for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make the crust tough. Mix just until combined to keep it tender and flaky.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can cause it to shrink during baking. Make sure to chill it in the fridge for at least an hour.
• Not pre-baking the crust: Failing to pre-bake can result in a soggy bottom. Bake it until lightly golden for a crisp finish.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven properly to ensure even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it covered with plastic wrap if you don’t have a container.

Freezing French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts of 15 seconds until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler method, gently warming while covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is French Lemon Tart W/ Lemon Curd?

French lemon tart w/ lemon curd is a dessert featuring a buttery pastry crust filled with a tangy lemon curd that’s baked until set.

How do I know when my lemon tart is done?

Your tart is done when the filling is slightly jiggly but not liquid. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and bake your tart one day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What variations can I try with this lemon tart recipe?

You can customize your tart by adding berries, using different citrus juices, or incorporating herbs like mint for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This French lemon tart w/ lemon curd is not only delicious but also versatile. Its bright flavors make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings to suit your taste!