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Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue

Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue for Sweet Spring Joy

Delight in these beautiful Mini Lemon Tarts with Lilac Meringue, a zesty and elegant dessert perfect for spring occasions.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Crust
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar No substitution needed.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt A pinch of sea salt can elevate flavor.
  • 1/2 cup chilled butter Unsalted butter recommended.
For the Lemon Curd
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice Always use fresh for the brightest taste.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar No substitutions recommended.
  • 3 large eggs Room temperature for best results.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Ensure it's finely grated.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Optional but enhances flavor.
For the Lilac Meringue
  • 3 large egg whites Fresher whites give better stability.
  • 1 teaspoon lilac food coloring Regular food coloring can be substituted.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Piping bag
  • Round cutter
  • Baking sheet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Pastry Cutter

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Tart Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Shape Crusts: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thick, cut circles for mini tart pans, and gently press into pans. Prick bottoms with a fork.
  3. Bake the Crusts: Arrange tart pans on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  4. Make Lemon Curd: In a saucepan, combine lemon juice, sugar, eggs, zest, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously for 8-10 minutes until thickened. Cool for 15 minutes.
  5. Fill Tarts: Pour cooled lemon curd into shells, smoothing tops as necessary. Set aside for 30 minutes to allow curd to set.
  6. Prepare Meringue: Whip egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Optionally, fold in lilac food coloring.
  7. Pipe Meringue: Transfer meringue to a piping bag and pipe onto each tart, creating generous swirls and peaks.
  8. Toast Meringue: Carefully toast meringue with a kitchen torch or broil for 1-2 minutes, watching attentively to prevent burning.
  9. Garnish: Garnish tarts with fresh mint or edible flowers for a pop of color and inviting appearance.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tartCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These mini lemon tarts are best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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