Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets

Name: Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons ice water; 1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice; Zest of 2 Meyer lemons; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightful and tangy, these Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are the perfect bite-sized dessert for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T12:25:50.478Z

Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are a delightful combination of tart and sweet flavors, encased in a buttery tart shell. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a refreshing dessert after dinner, these little treats are sure to impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love These Tartlets
        Bright and zesty flavor that awakens the palate
Buttery crust that complements the creamy filling
Perfectly portioned for sharing or enjoying on your own

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are not just a dessert; they are a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering. Their bite-sized form makes them ideal for parties, picnics, or even a quiet afternoon treat. The bright, zesty flavor of Meyer lemons brings a refreshing twist that can brighten up your day, making them a versatile choice for various occasions.

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply treating yourself, these tartlets fit seamlessly into any menu. Their small size allows for easy serving and sharing, making them a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the vibrant color of the lemon curd adds a visually appealing touch to your dessert table.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The combination of the buttery crust and the creamy lemon curd creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tart shell provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, velvety filling. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy, satisfying your taste buds while leaving you wanting more.

Using fresh Meyer lemons enhances the flavor profile, providing a unique sweetness that regular lemons lack. This makes the curd not only delicious but also aromatic, filling your kitchen with a citrusy fragrance as it cooks. The attention to detail in both the crust and curd ensures that these tartlets are truly special.

Tips for Perfecting Your Tartlets

To achieve the best results, make sure your butter is chilled when preparing the tart shell. This is essential for creating a flaky texture that melts in your mouth. Additionally, don’t skip the refrigeration step after mixing the dough; it helps the gluten relax, preventing the crust from shrinking during baking.

When making the lemon curd, constant stirring is key to preventing the eggs from scrambling. Cook over medium-low heat to allow the curd to thicken gradually without burning. For an extra touch, consider garnishing the tartlets with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving.

Ingredients

For the Tart Shell

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the Meyer Lemon Curd

1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the preparation.

Steps

Prepare the Tart Shell

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in egg yolk and ice water until the dough comes together.

Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Bake the Tart Shells

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 prick the bottoms with a fork.

Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool.

Make the Lemon Curd

In a saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth.

Fill the Tart Shells

Pour the lemon curd into the cooled tart shells. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to set.

Garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream before serving for an extra touch!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once prepared, these tartlets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them a convenient make-ahead dessert. Just be sure to cover them lightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness. If you’re serving them at a later date, wait to garnish them until just before serving to keep the toppings looking their best.

For a unique presentation, consider serving the tartlets on a decorative platter with fresh fruits or edible flowers. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds to the overall flavor experience, inviting your guests to indulge.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to mix things up, consider swapping Meyer lemons for other citrus fruits like limes or blood oranges. Each will impart a distinct flavor that can completely change the character of the tartlets while still maintaining their delightful essence.

You could also experiment with adding herbs such as basil or mint to the lemon curd for an unexpected twist. These fresh herbs can elevate the tartlets to a new level and provide a unique flavor combination that is sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but Meyer lemons offer a sweeter and less acidic flavor which is ideal for this recipe.

→ How long can I store the tartlets?

The tartlets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the tartlets?

It's best to freeze the tart shells separately and then fill them with curd just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for butter in the crust?

You can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan version.