Lemon Cream Tartlets

Lemon Cream Tartlets are the perfect treat to brighten up your day! With their refreshing lemon flavor and creamy texture, these delightful tartlets are ideal for any occasion, from afternoon tea to celebrating special moments. Their crisp pastry shell filled with luscious lemon cream will surely impress your family and friends. Follow this easy-to-follow recipe to create your own batch of these delicious delights!

Ingredients

  • 300 ml milk
  • Zest of 1-2 lemons
  • 2 eggs
  • 60 g sugar (for lemon cream)
  • 30 g cornstarch
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 40 ml)
  • 20 g butter (for lemon cream)
  • Yellow food coloring (optional)
  • 240 g flour
  • 60 g sugar (for dough)
  • 4 g baking powder
  • Lemon zest (optional, for dough)
  • 100 g butter (for dough)
  • 1 egg (for dough)
  • Flaked almonds (optional, for finishing)
  • Icing sugar for dusting

Directions

  1. Prepare the Lemon Cream Base: Pour the milk into a saucepan and add the zest of one or two lemons. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat to infuse the flavor.
  2. Mix the Cream Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until smooth.
  3. Combine and Cook: Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Return to the saucepan and heat until it thickens.
  4. Finish the Cream: Remove from heat, add butter and optional food coloring, then stir until smooth. Cover and let cool.
  5. Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and optional lemon zest. Rub in the butter.
  6. Add the Egg: Mix in the egg and knead gently until a soft dough forms.
  7. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  8. Prepare the Tartlet Molds: Butter the molds and press the chilled dough into each mold, reserving some for decoration.
  9. Chill Again: Refrigerate the molds for another 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes.
  10. Assemble: Whisk the cooled lemon cream, fill each tartlet shell, and top with almonds or reserved dough.
  11. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20-25 minutes until golden.
  12. Cool and Finish: Let cool completely before unmolding. Dust with icing sugar before serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: About 12 tartlets
Nutrition Info: Per tartlet – Approximately 180 calories, 8g fat, 24g carbs, 3g protein

How to Serve

Serve the Lemon Cream Tartlets chilled or at room temperature. They make for a delightful dessert at any gathering or a sweet treat for a quiet afternoon at home. For added flair, sprinkle flaked almonds on top or pair with fresh berries. A dusting of icing sugar adds an elegant finish that enhances their visual appeal.

FAQs

Can I use different flavors instead of lemon?
Yes, you can substitute lemon juice and zest with other citrus fruits such as lime or orange for a different flavor profile.

How can I make these tartlets gluten-free?
To make the tartlets gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I prepare the cream in advance?
Absolutely! The lemon cream can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the tartlets.