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Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue

Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue: A Delightful Spring Treat

Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue is an elegant dessert combining tangy lemon curd and delicate lilac meringue, perfect for spring gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 42 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Shells
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with almond flour for gluten-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar Adds sweetness and fine texture.
  • 1/2 cup Cold Butter Must remain cold for crisp results.
  • 1 large Egg Yolk Cannot substitute with egg white.
  • 2-3 tbsp Water May substitute with milk for richer flavor.
For the Lemon Curd
  • 1/2 cup Lemon Juice Fresh juice is preferable for vibrancy.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Enhances the citrus flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Necessary for structure.
  • 3 Eggs Must use whole eggs.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Use unsalted for control over saltiness.
For the Lilac Meringue
  • 3 Egg Whites Pasteurized egg whites can be used for convenience.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Essential for the right texture.
  • 1/4 tsp Cream of Tartar Can substitute with lemon juice.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract May swap for almond extract for a unique twist.
  • 1 drop Violet Food Coloring Natural sources like beet juice can be used.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Saucepan
  • Piping Bag
  • Kitchen torch
  • Mini Tart Pans

Method
 

Make the Tart Shells
  1. Pulse together all-purpose flour and powdered sugar in a food processor until combined. Add cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg yolk and just enough water to form a dough. Chill for 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough, press into mini tart pans, prick the bases, and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
Prepare the Lemon Curd
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, and whole eggs, stirring continuously for about 8-10 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat, whisk in unsalted butter until smooth, and let chill for about 1 hour.
Make the Lilac Meringue
  1. Set up a double boiler, whisk together egg whites, granulated sugar, and cream of tartar until warm. Beat with an electric mixer for 5-7 minutes until stiff peaks form. Fold in vanilla extract and violet food coloring.
Pipe the Meringue and Toast
  1. Once cooled and set, spoon lemon curd into tart shells. Use a piping bag to pipe lilac meringue onto the tarts, then lightly toast the tips using a kitchen torch.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Garnish each tart with edible lilac petals or dried lavender sprinkles. Arrange on a serving platter and serve chilled for a refreshing spring delight.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tartCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 30mgPotassium: 60mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For best results, ensure ingredients are at room temperature, especially egg whites. Chill tart dough for flakiness, and alternate baking position for even results. Add meringue fresh before serving for optimal texture.

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