This Lemon Mascarpone Tart is a perfect combination of tangy lemon and rich mascarpone cheese nestled in a buttery crust. It’s light, creamy, and ideal for serving as a dessert for any occasion.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings
- Makes: 8–10 slices
Ingredients
For the Lemon Filling:
- 2 eggs
- 120 g (4 oz) sugar
- 10 g (0.35 oz) vanilla sugar
- 60 g (2 oz) cornstarch
- 500 ml (17 fl oz) milk
- Grated peel of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 90 g (3 oz) mascarpone cheese
For the Crust:
- 320 g (11.5 oz) flour
- 140 g (5 oz) butter, at room temperature
- 1 egg
- 120 g (4 oz) sugar
- Grated peel of 1 lemon
- A pinch of salt
For Decoration:
- 1 teaspoon powdered sugar
Directions
1. Prepare the Lemon Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk while stirring constantly.
- Add the grated lemon peel and lemon juice to the mixture.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Stir in the mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Prepare the Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, egg, sugar, grated lemon peel, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough, reserving 1/3 for the topping. Wrap both portions in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
3. Assemble the Tart:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).
- Roll out 2/3 of the dough and press it into a 24 cm (9.5-inch) tart mold, covering the bottom and sides evenly.
- Pour the lemon filling into the prepared crust.
- Roll out the reserved 1/3 of the dough and cut it into strips. Arrange the strips in a lattice pattern over the filling.
4. Bake the Tart:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
5. Decorate and Serve:
- Dust the tart with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a refreshing afternoon treat.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh berries for extra indulgence.
Cooking Tips
- Stir the filling constantly while cooking to prevent lumps.
- Chill the dough for easier handling and a flakier crust.
- Use a springform pan for easier tart removal.
Nutritional Benefits
- Lemon adds vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Mascarpone provides protein and a creamy texture.
- Eggs and milk are excellent sources of calcium and protein.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs; not suitable for those with allergies.
Nutritional Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: ~300
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 18 g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze individual slices for up to 1 month. Defrost in the refrigerator before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the refreshing tang of lemon with the creamy richness of mascarpone.
- The buttery crust perfectly balances the tart filling.
- A simple yet elegant dessert that’s easy to make.
- Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Conclusion
- This Lemon Mascarpone Tart is a refreshing and indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress. Its buttery crust, creamy filling, and zesty lemon flavor make it a delightful treat for any event. Try this recipe and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use lime instead of lemon? Yes, lime zest and juice can be used for a tangy twist.
- Can I make the dough in advance? Yes, prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
- Can I skip the mascarpone? You can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese for a similar texture.
- Can I make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour mix for the crust.
- How do I know when the tart is done? The crust should be golden, and the filling should be set.
- Can I serve it warm? It’s best served chilled for optimal flavor and texture.
- How do I prevent lumps in the filling? Stir constantly and use a whisk for a smooth consistency.
- Can I freeze the tart? Yes, freeze the tart (without powdered sugar) for up to 1 month.
- What other toppings can I use? Fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of lemon glaze.
- Can I use store-bought crust? Yes, but homemade dough enhances the flavor.