Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets
Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes
Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are a delightful treat that combines the bright, tangy flavor of Meyer lemons with a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, these tartlets are sure to impress your guests.
Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are a delightful dessert that captures the essence of spring with their bright flavors. The unique sweetness of Meyer lemons, which are a cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange, makes these tartlets a refreshing treat. They are perfect for serving at brunch, as a light dessert, or for special occasions.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Zesty and refreshing flavor that brightens your day
- Perfectly balanced sweetness and acidity
- Elegant presentation that impresses at any gathering
The Magic of Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons are a delightful hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange, characterized by their sweeter flavor and vibrant, aromatic zest. Their unique taste sets them apart from regular lemons, making them a favorite among chefs and home bakers alike. When used in desserts, Meyer lemons add a refreshing twist that can elevate any dish.
The zest of Meyer lemons is especially fragrant and can enhance the overall flavor profile of your dishes. Incorporating it into the lemon curd not only brightens the tartlets but also adds a beautiful aroma that will entice your guests as they take their first bite. You'll find that this subtle sweetness is a game changer in dessert recipes.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are versatile enough to be served at various occasions, from casual family gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Their individual portions make them easy to serve and enjoy, eliminating the need for slicing and serving a large pie. Guests will appreciate the thoughtful presentation and the delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
These tartlets also make for a fantastic spring or summer dessert, as their bright citrus flavor pairs wonderfully with warm weather. Whether you're hosting a brunch, a picnic, or a festive celebration, these tartlets are sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests, making them a memorable addition to your dessert table.
Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect tartlet shells, ensure that your butter is chilled and cubed before starting. Cold butter is essential for creating that flaky, tender texture. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough; mix just until combined to prevent tough shells. A gentle hand will give you that desired melt-in-your-mouth experience.
For the Meyer lemon curd, take care not to overheat the mixture once you return it to the saucepan. Cooking over low heat is key to achieving the right consistency without scrambling the eggs. Stir constantly and be patient; the curd will thicken beautifully, resulting in a silky smooth filling for your tartlets.
Ingredients
For the Tartlet Shells
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
For the Meyer Lemon Curd
- 1/2 cup Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Make sure to use fresh Meyer lemons for the best flavor!
Instructions
Make the Tartlet Shells
1. In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the egg yolk and cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit a muffin tin. Press the dough into the tin and pierce the bottom with a fork.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.
Prepare the Meyer Lemon Curd
1. In a saucepan, combine the Meyer lemon juice, zest, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add the warm lemon mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened, about 7-10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
5. Pour the curd into the cooled tartlet shells and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Serve chilled and enjoy your tartlets!
Storing and Serving
Once prepared, these tartlets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. The lemon curd will maintain its creamy texture, allowing you to enjoy them at your leisure. If you're planning to serve them at a gathering, consider making them a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
When serving, you can garnish the tartlets with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance. Fresh berries or mint leaves can also be added for a pop of color and additional flavor, elevating the presentation even further.
Variations to Try
While Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are delicious as is, don't hesitate to experiment with flavors. Consider adding a touch of lavender or rosemary to the lemon curd for a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds. You could also incorporate different citrus fruits, like blood oranges or limes, to create a citrus medley that everyone will love.
If you prefer a different crust, try using a graham cracker or almond flour crust for a gluten-free option. Each variation will bring a new dimension to the tartlets, allowing you to customize them according to your preferences and the season.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the tartlet shells in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tartlet shells a day ahead and store them in an airtight container.
→ What can I substitute for Meyer lemons?
You can use regular lemons, but consider reducing the sugar slightly as they are more acidic.
→ How long will the lemon curd keep in the refrigerator?
The lemon curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the tartlets?
It's best to freeze the tartlet shells separately from the lemon curd. The shells can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets
Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are a delightful treat that combines the bright, tangy flavor of Meyer lemons with a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, these tartlets are sure to impress your guests.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Classic Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 tartlets
What You'll Need
For the Tartlet Shells
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
For the Meyer Lemon Curd
- 1/2 cup Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
How-To Steps
1. In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add the egg yolk and cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit a muffin tin. Press the dough into the tin and pierce the bottom with a fork.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.
1. In a saucepan, combine the Meyer lemon juice, zest, and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add the warm lemon mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat until thickened, about 7-10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and smooth.
5. Pour the curd into the cooled tartlet shells and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 2g