Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2½ tbsp granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 large egg yolk
- 4 tsp ice water
For the Filling:
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 5 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
For the Topping:
- 1¼ cups heavy cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fresh berries (optional) for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter (or your fingers) to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in egg yolk and ice water until the dough comes together.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.
2. Bake the Crust
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough and press into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim excess dough.
- Chill for 20 minutes to prevent shrinking.
- Line with parchment paper and pie weights; bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove weights and bake for 5-10 more minutes until golden brown. Let cool.
3. Make the Filling
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, flour, and salt.
- Slowly add water while stirring; cook over medium heat until thickened (3-5 minutes).
- Reduce heat, whisk in egg yolks, and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
4. Assemble the Tart
- Pour warm lemon filling into the cooled crust.
- Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until fully set.
5. Prepare the Whipped Cream
- Beat heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
6. Serve
- Top chilled tart with whipped cream and fresh berries.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Extra Tangy: Increase lemon juice to ⅓ cup for more citrus flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
- Meringue Topping: Swap whipped cream for toasted meringue.
- Berry Infusion: Add raspberry or blueberry purée to the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian