Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets

Name: Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice; Zest of 2 Meyer lemons; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence Recipes

Delight in the zesty and creamy flavors of these Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-20T11:39:48.892Z

Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are a delightful dessert that combines the bright, tangy flavor of Meyer lemons with a buttery tart crust. These mini treats are perfect for parties, tea time, or any sweet indulgence!

        Why You'll Love These Tartlets
        Bright and tangy flavor that refreshes the palate
Buttery crust that perfectly complements the smooth curd
Elegant presentation ideal for any gathering

      

The Charm of Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons, a delightful hybrid of regular lemons and mandarin oranges, bring a unique sweetness and aromatic zest to recipes. Unlike standard lemons, these fruits have a thinner skin and a less acidic bite, making them perfect for desserts like our Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets. Their vibrant yellow hue is not just visually appealing; it signifies the freshness and quality of the fruit, enhancing both the flavor and the presentation of your tartlets.

Incorporating Meyer lemons into your baking can elevate your desserts to new heights. Their distinctive flavor profile adds complexity, balancing sweetness and tartness beautifully. Whether you're making curd, lemon bars, or simply using the zest in your recipes, Meyer lemons infuse a refreshing twist that is hard to resist. They are a versatile ingredient that can brighten up any dish, making them a favorite among chefs and home bakers alike.

Perfecting the Tartlet Shell

The foundation of any great tartlet lies in its shell. A well-made tartlet shell should be buttery, flaky, and sturdy enough to hold a luscious filling without becoming soggy. To achieve this, it's essential to use cold ingredients and handle the dough minimally to prevent gluten formation. This approach ensures that your tartlet shells have the right texture and flavor, providing a perfect complement to the creamy Meyer lemon curd.

When preparing the tartlet shells, remember the importance of blind baking. This technique involves pre-baking the crust before adding the filling to ensure it maintains its crispness. By pricking the bottom with a fork and using pie weights or dried beans, you can prevent the crust from puffing up during baking. The result? A golden, perfectly formed shell ready to showcase your delicious Meyer lemon curd.

Serving Suggestions

These Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are also a feast for the eyes. To enhance their elegant presentation, consider garnishing them with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scatter of fresh berries. A sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add a touch of sophistication, making them perfect for formal gatherings or festive celebrations.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider pairing these tartlets with a refreshing herbal tea or a crisp glass of sparkling wine. The tartness of the lemon curd and the buttery shell complement the effervescence of the drink, creating a delightful balance. Whether served at a brunch, tea party, or as a light dessert, these tartlets will impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.

Ingredients

For the Tartlet Shells

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water

For the Meyer Lemon Curd

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

Make sure to use fresh Meyer lemons for the best flavor in your curd.

Instructions

Prepare the Tartlet Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.

Stir in the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tartlet pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.

Make the Meyer Lemon Curd

In a saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until smooth.

Strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.

Assemble the Tartlets

Once the tartlet shells are cool, fill each with the Meyer lemon curd. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with whipped cream or fresh berries if desired.

Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving.

Storage Tips

To ensure that your Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets remain fresh, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days of preparation. If you want to make them ahead of time, consider storing the tartlet shells and lemon curd separately. This way, you can assemble them just before serving, ensuring the crust stays crisp and the curd retains its vibrant flavor.

If you have leftover lemon curd, it can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. This versatile spread can be used in various ways, from topping pancakes to spreading on toast, or even as a filling for cakes and pastries. Don’t let any delicious curd go to waste!

Variations to Try

While the classic Meyer lemon curd is a standout in these tartlets, don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors. Consider adding a touch of fresh ginger for a warming spice or infusing the curd with herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist. Each variation can provide a new dimension to the tartlets, making them exciting and versatile for different occasions.

You can also experiment with the crust. Try using almond flour for a gluten-free option or adding finely crushed nuts for extra texture and flavor. A chocolate or graham cracker crust can add a delightful contrast to the tart lemon curd, making these tartlets a fun and customizable dessert for everyone to enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but the flavor will be more tart. You may want to adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How do I store leftover tartlets?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the tartlet shells?

Yes, you can freeze the unfilled tartlet shells for up to 2 months. Thaw before filling.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the curd?

You can use aquafaba or silken tofu as a base for a vegan lemon curd.