Go Back
+ servings
Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue

Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue for Springtime Bliss

Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue is a refreshing, visually stunning dessert perfect for spring gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Shells
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar Can use granulated sugar in a pinch.
  • 1/2 cup Cold Butter Must be cold for the right texture.
  • 1 large Egg Yolk Flax egg as a vegan alternative.
  • 2-3 tablespoons Cold Water Omit if using a moister ingredient.
For the Lemon Curd
  • 1/2 cup Lemon Juice & Zest Substitute with lime juice for a lime-flavored twist.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Feel free to reduce for a less sweet taste.
  • 2 large Eggs Consider a commercial egg replacer for a vegan version.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Coconut oil can serve as a dairy-free substitute.
For the Lilac Meringue
  • 2 large Egg Whites Aquafaba can be used for a vegan option.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cream of Tartar Can be omitted but may affect texture.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar No alternatives recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Almond extract can be a delightful substitute.
  • 1-2 drops Violet Food Coloring Consider natural alternatives like butterfly pea flower extract.

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • oven
  • Medium saucepan
  • electric mixer
  • Mini Tart Pans

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour and powdered sugar, pulsing until well blended. Add cold butter in chunks, mixing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then, incorporate the egg yolk and cold water, processing until the dough holds together, about 1-2 minutes. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface, then carefully press it into mini tart pans. Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent bubbling, then line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown, then remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
  3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs over medium heat until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly for about 8-10 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and whisk in butter until completely smooth. Pour this luscious lemon curd into the cooled tart shells, smoothing the tops with a spatula, and then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
  4. Prepare the lilac meringue by placing egg whites, granulated sugar, and cream of tartar in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Whisk continuously until the mixture is warm and sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and beat with an electric mixer for about 5-7 minutes until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in vanilla extract and violet food coloring to achieve a beautiful lilac hue.
  5. Once the meringue is ready, pipe it onto the chilled mini lemon tarts in whimsical swirls. Use a kitchen torch to carefully toast the tips of the meringue until they reach a golden hue, creating a stunning visual appeal. Finally, garnish with edible lilac petals or dried lavender for a delightful touch that complements the flavor of your Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tartCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Chill your dough properly before baking and use the freshest ingredients for best results.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!