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Classic Lemon Tart

A traditional French dessert that balances sweetness and tartness with a buttery, flaky crust and zesty lemon filling.
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Prep Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: French
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Crust
  • 200 g all-purpose flour
  • 100 g unsalted butter (cold, cubed) Butter should remain cold for a flaky crust.
  • 50 g sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 pieces egg yolks
For the Lemon Filling
  • 4 large eggs
  • 150 g sugar
  • 120 ml fresh lemon juice Use the freshest lemons available.
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • 50 g butter Softened
  • 100 ml heavy cream Can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

Method
 

Preparation of Tart Crust
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt.
  2. Cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in the egg yolks and mix until just combined. Form into a disc and wrap in plastic wrap.
  4. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness and press into a tart pan.
  6. Chill again for 30 minutes.
Baking the Crust
  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place parchment paper over the crust and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
  3. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove weights and parchment, baking for another 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Preparation of Lemon Filling
  1. In a saucepan, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
  2. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously until thickened—about 10 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat, and add softened butter and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
Assembly and Final Baking
  1. Pour the lemon filling into the pre-baked crust and smooth the top.
  2. Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 10-12 minutes until just set.
  3. Allow to cool at room temperature and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Dust with powdered sugar before serving and serve chilled. Can store in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for three months.