Are you looking to whip up a dessert that screams elegance, but easy enough to make without breaking a sweat? A classic lemon tart might just be your perfect choice. With its bright, sunny flavors and a buttery crust, it’s a dessert that can bring a touch of class to any meal. Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned baker – this recipe is straightforward and yields a delicious, professional-looking tart that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 2-4 tablespoons of ice water
For the filling:
– 1 cup of fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
– 1 1/2 cups of sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (melted)
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons of lemon zest
– Pinch of salt
Directions:
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
1. Combine 1 1/4 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of ice water over the mixture and pulse until the dough starts to come together. Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if necessary.
3. Transfer the dough onto a work surface and form it into a ball. Flatten it into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Gently press it into a 9-inch tart pan, trimming any excess dough from the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork.
5. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for about 20 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, and bake for another 10 minutes, or until golden. Let it cool.
Step 2: Making the Filling
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of lemon juice, 1 and 1/2 cups of sugar, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 4 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
Step 3: Baking the Tart
1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.
2. Let the tart cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled before serving. This could take a few hours, but it’s worth the wait for the flavors to meld.
Decorating Tips:
– Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
– Garnish with whipped cream and thin lemon slices for added flair.
– Fresh berries also make a lovely, colorful addition.
Additional Tips for Success:
- Ensure your butter is cold for the crust; it’s essential for achieving that flaky texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the filling. It makes a difference in flavor.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it makes it easier to work with and helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
Creating a classic lemon tart might seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think. By following this simple recipe, even novice bakers can produce a dessert that looks and tastes as if it came straight from a fancy bakery. The bright, citrusy filling paired with a rich, buttery crust makes for a refreshing end to any meal. So, next time you’re looking to impress with your baking skills, give this lemon tart a try – success is just a few steps away!