Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets
Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings
Delight in the zesty freshness of these Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets, perfect for any occasion.
The tangy and sweet flavor of Meyer lemons brings a unique twist to traditional lemon tart, making these tartlets a favorite among dessert lovers.
Why You Will Love These Tartlets
- Bright and tangy Meyer lemon flavor
- Buttery crust that complements the filling perfectly
- Individual servings make them perfect for sharing
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Meyer lemons are a delightful hybrid of a lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a unique sweetness that sets them apart from traditional lemons. The curd made from these lemons is not only tangy but also has a subtle floral note that enhances its brightness. This exquisite blend of flavors makes each bite of the tartlet a refreshing experience, perfect for those who appreciate a citrusy dessert with a twist.
The buttery crust serves as an ideal canvas for the Meyer lemon curd, providing a rich and flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth and creamy filling. This balance of textures and flavors ensures that every tartlet is a little piece of heaven, making them an irresistible choice for gatherings or as a delightful treat for yourself.
A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion
These Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are not just a dessert; they're a versatile treat that can elevate any occasion. Whether you're hosting a spring brunch, a summer picnic, or a festive holiday gathering, these tartlets will impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to your table. Their individual servings make them easy to share, allowing everyone to indulge without the need for cutting and plating a large dessert.
Moreover, the vibrant lemon flavor and beautiful presentation make these tartlets a stunning addition to dessert trays. Pair them with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more delightful experience. Their eye-catching appearance will surely draw attention and compliments from your guests.
Tips for Perfect Tartlets
To achieve the perfect tartlet crust, ensure that your butter is very cold. This helps create a flaky texture as the butter melts during baking. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust. Gently mix until combined, and remember to chill the dough before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.
When preparing the Meyer lemon curd, continuous stirring is key to achieving the desired thickness without curdling the eggs. Use a thermometer if you're unsure; the curd is ready when it reaches about 170°F (77°C). Once done, strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps for a silky-smooth finish.
Ingredients
For the Tartlet Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For the Meyer Lemon Curd
- 1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Make the Tartlet Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms.
Pre-bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and cut into circles to fit a tartlet pan. Press into the pan and prick the bottoms with a fork.
Prepare the Meyer Lemon Curd
In a saucepan, whisk together Meyer lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth.
Fill the Tartlets
Once the crusts are cool, fill each tartlet with the lemon curd. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Storing Your Tartlets
These tartlets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a convenient option for meal prep or last-minute gatherings. If you plan to make them in advance, consider filling them with lemon curd the day you intend to serve them to maintain the crispiness of the crust.
To store, simply cover the tartlets with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. If you're worried about the crust becoming soggy, you can store the crust and curd separately and assemble them just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
For an added touch of flavor, consider garnishing your Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets with fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds a refreshing note that complements the citrusy filling beautifully.
Pair the tartlets with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of sparkling wine for a sophisticated dessert experience. The effervescence of the sparkling wine can elevate the tart's flavors, making for a delightful end to any meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly more tart. You may want to adjust the sugar to taste.
→ How do I store the tartlets?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the tartlets?
It's best to freeze the crusts separately and fill them with curd before serving to maintain texture.
→ What's the best way to serve these tartlets?
They are best served chilled, garnished with fresh berries or whipped cream.
Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets
Delight in the zesty freshness of these Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets, perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Sandra
Recipe Type: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 tartlets
What You'll Need
For the Tartlet Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For the Meyer Lemon Curd
- 1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and cut into circles to fit a tartlet pan. Press into the pan and prick the bottoms with a fork. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden. Let cool.
In a saucepan, whisk together Meyer lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth.
Once the crusts are cool, fill each tartlet with the lemon curd. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g