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Classic French Tarte au Citron with buttery crust and silky lemon curd filling

French Lemon Tart

A bright, creamy lemon tart with a crisp crust and smooth filling perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: French
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the filling
  • 3-5 lemons Fresh lemon juice (about 3 to 5 lemons, depending on size) Use real lemons for the best flavor.
  • 2-3 lemons Lemon zest (from 2 to 3 lemons, finely grated) Release lemon oils by rubbing with sugar.
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Essential for flavor; avoid reducing too much.
  • 3 whole Eggs (whole eggs) Provides structure to the filling.
  • 3 large Egg yolks Adds richness and silkiness.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Cut into cubes, at room temperature.
  • 1 splash Heavy cream (optional) For a softer bite.
  • 1 pinch Salt Enhances flavor.
For the crust
  • 1 pre-made tart shell Pre-made tart shell or classic sweet tart crust Use a store-bought shell for convenience.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325 F (160 C). Have your crust in a tart pan ready to go.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar and lemon zest, rubbing them together to release the oils.
  3. Whisk in the eggs and yolks until smooth, avoiding incorporating too much air.
  4. Add lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Whisk again.
  5. Gently warm the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly, but do not boil.
  6. Remove from heat and add butter cubes a few at a time, stirring until melted and glossy.
  7. If using cream, stir it in at the end.
  8. Strain the filling through a fine sieve into a bowl for a smooth texture.
  9. Pour the filling into the crust and bake until the center is just set with a slight jiggle, usually 18 to 25 minutes.
  10. Cool the tart at room temperature, then chill for at least 3 to 4 hours before slicing.

Notes

Letting the tart chill thoroughly is critical for clean slices. Best served with light sides to contrast the richness.