These Lemon Cream Puff Pastry Tarts are the perfect combination of flaky pastry and tangy lemon filling. With their creamy texture and refreshing citrus flavor, they make an elegant dessert or a delightful treat for any occasion. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, these tarts are sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 250 ml (1 cup) milk
- 40 ml (about 3 tablespoons) lemon juice
- Lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
- Puff pastry sheets (store-bought or homemade)
- Extra milk (for brushing the pastry)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg, cornstarch, sugar, and milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy texture.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and optional lemon zest for extra flavor.
Cool the Filling:
- Transfer the lemon cream to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for about 30 minutes until cooled.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into squares or circles based on your preferred tart shape.
- Place the pastry pieces into a muffin tin or tart molds, pressing them gently to form tart shells.
Brush with Milk:
- Lightly brush the top edges of the puff pastry with milk to enhance their golden color during baking.
Bake the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the puff pastry shells for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
Assemble the Tarts:
- Once the pastry shells and lemon cream are cool, spoon the chilled lemon cream into the puff pastry shells.
Dust with Powdered Sugar:
- Lightly dust the tops of the tarts with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh berries for a colorful and flavorful addition.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Add a drizzle of raspberry or chocolate sauce for a creative twist.
Cooking Tips
- Use cold puff pastry to ensure it puffs up evenly during baking.
- Stir the lemon cream constantly while cooking to avoid lumps.
- For a zestier flavor, add extra lemon zest to the filling.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Milk provides calcium and protein.
- The tarts are a lighter dessert option due to the small portion size.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Not suitable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets unless using substitutes.
Nutritional Facts (per tart, approximate)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 8g
Storage
- Store assembled tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- The lemon cream can be prepared ahead and stored separately for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing, as the puff pastry may lose its crisp texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with store-bought puff pastry.
- The perfect balance of flaky, creamy, and tangy flavors.
- Great for any occasion, from casual gatherings to fancy celebrations.
- Customizable with your favorite garnishes and flavors.
Conclusion
These Lemon Cream Puff Pastry Tarts are a delightful way to enjoy a refreshing and indulgent dessert. With their creamy lemon filling and golden, flaky pastry, they offer the perfect bite-sized treat. Whether for a tea party or a simple after-dinner dessert, these tarts will always impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making the lemon cream?
Yes, store-bought lemon curd is a quick and delicious alternative. - Can I freeze the tarts?
It’s not recommended to freeze assembled tarts, but you can freeze the baked pastry shells and fill them later. - Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute almond or coconut milk for regular milk and use a dairy-free puff pastry. - How do I prevent the pastry from puffing too much in the center?
Prick the center of the pastry with a fork before baking. - Can I use other citrus fruits?
Absolutely! Try lime or orange juice for a different citrus flavor. - What if my filling doesn’t thicken?
Cook it a little longer over medium heat, ensuring constant stirring. - Can I make mini tarts with this recipe?
Yes, use a mini muffin tin and smaller pastry cutouts for bite-sized tarts. - How do I prevent soggy pastry?
Ensure the pastry is fully baked and cooled before adding the filling. - Can I add toppings to the tarts?
Yes, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate curls make great toppings. - Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.