Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets

Name: Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3 eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

Delight in the zesty sweetness of these Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-20T13:30:50.706Z

The combination of the sweet and tangy Meyer lemon curd filling in a buttery tart shell makes these tartlets a delightful treat.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and vibrant flavor from fresh Meyer lemons
Perfectly balanced sweetness with a hint of tartness
Elegant presentation ideal for entertaining

      

The Magic of Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons are a delightful hybrid between a regular lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a unique sweetness that sets them apart from traditional lemons. Their thin skin and fragrant aroma make them a favorite among chefs and home bakers alike. When used in recipes, they impart a bright, citrusy flavor that enhances desserts and savory dishes alike.

Incorporating Meyer lemons into your baking not only elevates the taste but also adds a beautiful golden hue to your dishes. This vibrant color is visually appealing and makes your tartlets stand out on any dessert table. The subtle floral notes in Meyer lemons also provide a refreshing twist that can transform ordinary recipes into extraordinary ones.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Meyer Lemon Curd Tartlets are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at various occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer garden party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet treat on a rainy afternoon, these tartlets are sure to impress. Their elegant size makes them easy to serve and share.

Moreover, the balance of sweetness and tartness in the lemon curd makes these tartlets appealing to a wide range of palates. They can be served as a light dessert after a heavy meal or as a refreshing snack any time of the day. This versatility makes them a staple recipe for your dessert repertoire.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavor in your Meyer lemon curd, always opt for fresh juice and zest. The freshness of the lemons significantly enhances the taste and ensures that your tartlets have that vibrant kick. Additionally, be mindful of the cooking process; stir the curd constantly over medium heat to prevent it from curdling and to achieve a silky-smooth texture.

When it comes to the tartlet shells, ensure that the butter is softened but not melted. This will help create a flaky, tender crust that perfectly complements the creamy curd. If you find the dough too sticky to work with, a light dusting of flour on your work surface can help you roll it out more easily.

Ingredients

For the Tartlet Shells

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water

For the Meyer Lemon Curd

1/2 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed

Make sure to use fresh Meyer lemons for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Tartlet Shells

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until the dough comes together. Chill for 30 minutes.

Bake the Tartlet Shells

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit a tartlet pan. Press the dough into the pan and prick the bottoms with a fork.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Let cool.

Make the Meyer Lemon Curd

In a saucepan, whisk together the Meyer lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter until smooth.

Assemble the Tartlets

Fill the cooled tartlet shells with the Meyer lemon curd. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to set.

Serve chilled and enjoy the burst of flavor!

Serving Suggestions

These tartlets can be garnished with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch of elegance. The contrasting textures and flavors will elevate the dessert experience, making it even more delightful for your guests.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the lemon curd before serving. This will enhance the sweetness and provide a sophisticated flavor profile that delights the palate.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This will help maintain the freshness of the lemon curd and the integrity of the tartlet shells.

For longer storage, consider freezing the tartlet shells separately from the lemon curd. The shells can be frozen for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the shells at room temperature and fill them with freshly made lemon curd.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but the tartlets will be more tart. You may want to adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How long do the tartlets last?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the tartlets?

It's best to freeze the shells separately and fill them with curd just before serving.

→ What can I use if I don’t have a tartlet pan?

You can use a muffin tin or any small baking dish to shape the tartlets.