Description
This French Lemon Cream Tart is a luscious dessert featuring a smooth, creamy lemon filling nestled in a crisp pre-made tart shell. The tart combines the tangy brightness of fresh lemon juice and zest with the richness of heavy cream and butter, baked to a delicate finish that’s slightly jiggly in the center. Perfectly chilled before serving, it’s a refreshing and elegant treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Tart Shell
- 1 pre-made tart shell
Lemon Cream Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the tart.
- Heat Cream and Sugar: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar has completely dissolved, then remove the pan from heat to prevent overheating.
- Whisk Eggs and Lemon Juice: In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs and fresh lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour the warm cream and sugar mixture into the eggs while whisking continuously. This gradual combination prevents the eggs from curdling and ensures a silky texture.
- Add Butter and Combine: Stir in the cubed unsalted butter until it fully melts and the filling becomes smooth and creamy.
- Fill the Tart Shell: Pour the lemon cream mixture into the pre-baked tart shell, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer.
- Bake the Tart: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The filling should be just set but still slightly jiggly in the center when done.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the tart to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to firm up and develop flavors fully.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the tart with the remaining lemon zest for a bright, aromatic finish that complements the creamy filling.
Notes
- Use a pre-baked tart shell to avoid sogginess and ensure a crisp crust.
- Be careful when whisking the warm cream into the eggs to prevent curdling; add slowly and stir constantly.
- Chilling the tart for at least 2 hours improves texture and flavor development.
- You can garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream for added decoration and flavor.
- If a pre-made tart shell is unavailable, you can bake your own pastry crust ahead of time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
