Classic Lemon Tart

This classic lemon tart is a delicious French dessert that combines a buttery, flaky crust with a smooth, tangy lemon curd filling. The perfect balance of sweet and tart, it’s an ideal treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Tart Dough:

1½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup confectioners’ sugar

¼ teaspoon sea salt

9 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

1 large egg, gently beaten

For the Lemon Filling:

1 cup granulated sugar

4 large eggs, at room temperature

⅔ cup unsalted butter, softened and cut into small pieces

2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest

½ cup fresh lemon juice

For the Topping:

½ cup fresh berries (optional)

¼ cup whipped cream or Cool Whip (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Tart Dough:

In the bowl of a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and sea salt. Pulse a few times to mix.

Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the beaten egg and pulse until the dough begins to come together.

Turn the dough out onto a work surface and knead gently to bring it together.

Press the dough into a tart pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly.

Prick the bottom with a fork and freeze for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line the tart shell with aluminum foil and fill with pie weights or dried beans.

Bake for 25 minutes, remove the foil and weights, and bake for an additional 7–10 minutes until golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Prepare the Lemon Filling:

In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.

Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches 170°F (77°C), about 10 minutes.

Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any solids.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assemble the Tart:

Pour the chilled lemon filling into the cooled tart shell.

Refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or preferably overnight.

Serve:

Before serving, top with whipped cream and fresh berries if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Storage/Reheating

To store any leftovers, I recommend covering the tart tightly with plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. If you prefer it warm, you can let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Reheating isn’t necessary, but if you want to warm it slightly, place it in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

How do I know when the lemon filling is done?

The filling should thicken to a custard-like consistency and reach 170°F (77°C) when checked with a thermometer. It will continue to set as it cools in the refrigerator.

Can I make this lemon tart ahead of time?

Yes! This tart is perfect for making ahead. I suggest making it a day in advance so it has plenty of time to chill and set in the fridge before serving.

Can I use store-bought tart crust?

While I prefer making the dough from scratch, you can use a store-bought tart crust for convenience. However, the homemade crust adds a lovely, buttery texture that enhances the overall flavor of the tart.

Can I freeze the lemon tart?

You can freeze the lemon tart without the topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

For the best flavor, I always use fresh lemon juice. Bottled lemon juice lacks the freshness and vibrant flavor that fresh lemon juice provides. But if needed, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.

Conclusion

This classic lemon tart is a crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect combination of tangy lemon filling and a rich, buttery crust. It's an ideal dessert for almost any occasion, whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet and tart. The simplicity of the ingredients and the elegance of the presentation make this tart a must-try for lemon lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.