Custard Lemon Tart Recipe

A delightful dessert featuring a buttery crust filled with smooth, tangy lemon custard. Perfect for special occasions or a refreshing treat.

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ¼ cups (150 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 3 tablespoons (24 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1-2 tablespoons cold water

For the Lemon Custard Filling:

  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 2 lemons (about ½ cup or 120 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons (16 g) cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Prepare the Crust:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Add the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of cold water. Mix until the dough comes together. If it’s too dry, add an additional tablespoon of water.
    • Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Blind Bake the Crust:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan. Press it into the pan and trim the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork.
    • Line the crust with parchment paper, fill with pie weights or dried beans, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.
  3. Prepare the Lemon Custard Filling:
    • In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, milk, and heavy cream. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and cornstarch, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
    • Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
    • Pour the custard filling into the pre-baked crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
  4. Bake the Tart:
    • Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
    • Bake the tart for 20-25 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
    • Allow the tart to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.

Serving Suggestions

  • Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices or zest before serving.
  • Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Serve with fresh berries for added color and flavor.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure constant whisking of the custard to prevent curdling.
  • Blind baking the crust prevents it from becoming soggy.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids.
  • Dairy ingredients offer calcium and vitamin D.

Dietary Information

  • Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
  • Not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings)

  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugars: 20 g
  • Protein: 6 g

Storage

  • Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
  • Not recommended for freezing, as the custard texture may be compromised.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
  • A buttery, flaky crust complements the creamy lemon custard.
  • Elegant presentation suitable for various occasions.
  • Simple ingredients come together to create a sophisticated dessert.

Conclusion This Custard Lemon Tart offers a harmonious blend of tangy lemon and sweet, creamy custard encased in a buttery crust. Its elegant appearance and delightful flavor make it a standout choice for any dessert table. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, this tart is sure to impress and satisfy.