Unveil the elegance of classic French patisserie with this Luscious Baked Lemon Tart, a dessert that balances the bright zestiness of lemon with a silky, rich filling. Encased in a tender, buttery crust, this tart is not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Each component, from the crisp pastry to the creamy lemon filling, is crafted to work in harmony, offering a sophisticated flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Why You'll Love This: This Baked Lemon Tart is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients transforming into a sublime dessert. The vibrant flavor of lemon zest and juice infuses the tart with a refreshing tang that perfectly complements the sweet, rich base. The smooth texture of the filling, coupled with the flaky crust, makes each bite a delightful experience. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate desserts that deliver a refreshing burst of citrus balanced with just the right amount of sweetness.
Perfect Occasion: This tart is perfect for any occasion that calls for a refined dessert. It shines as a showstopping centerpiece at dinner parties, celebrations, and especially during spring and summer gatherings. Serve it at brunches or as a sophisticated dessert at your next family gathering. It's also a fantastic choice for holiday meals or any moment that calls for a dessert that's both elegant and irresistibly delicious.
Decoration Tips: For a beautiful presentation, garnish the tart with thinly sliced lemon wheels, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or fresh mint leaves for a touch of green. Consider adding a few edible flowers for a festive touch, or serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry coulis for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Ingredients:
For the Tart Crust:
- Flour: 250g
- Softened butter: 100g
- Icing sugar: 80g
- Egg: 1
- A pinch of salt
For the Lemon Cream Filling:
- Lemon zest: from 2 lemons
- Lemon juice: from 3 lemons (150ml)
- Sugar: 130g
- Eggs: 4
- Lightly heated fresh cream: 250ml
Preparation Method:
- Prepare the Dough:
- Cream the softened butter with icing sugar and a pinch of salt.
- Add the egg and mix thoroughly, then incorporate the flour.
- Chill the dough for 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Roll out the dough and line a 24 cm tart mold.
- Pre-bake ("blind bake") at 180°C (356°F) for 20-25 minutes until lightly golden.
- Make the Lemon Cream Filling:
- Combine lemon zest with sugar.
- Add eggs and whisk vigorously.
- Stir in the lemon juice and the lightly heated cream.
- Pour the filling into the cooled tart shell.
- Bake the Tart:
- Bake at 140°C (284°F) for about 25 minutes. The filling will be quite liquid, so carefully transfer the tart to the oven.
Enjoy this Luscious Baked Lemon Tart, a perfect blend of zesty freshness and creamy sweetness, guaranteed to be a hit at any table!