Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes
These delightful Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts are the perfect combination of tangy lemon curd and fluffy meringue, all nestled in a buttery tart shell.
These Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts are a delightful treat that combines the vibrant flavor of lemon with the lightness of meringue. Perfect for parties or as a sweet indulgence, these tarts are sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty flavor that awakens your taste buds
- Light and airy meringue topping adds a perfect contrast
- Adorable mini size makes them a great addition to any dessert table
The Perfect Bite of Sunshine
Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts are a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your dessert table. Each tart features a tangy lemon curd that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and sour. The use of fresh lemon juice and zest ensures that every bite is packed with vibrant flavor, making them an ideal choice for lemon lovers. Their bright yellow filling not only tastes amazing but also adds a cheerful touch to any occasion.
The buttery tart shell serves as the perfect foundation for the lemon curd, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the filling. This combination of textures is what truly elevates these tarts, making them an unforgettable dessert. These mini treats are not just delicious; they are visually appealing as well, with their inviting colors and elegant presentation.
Meringue Magic
The meringue topping is where the magic really happens. Light and airy, it provides a delightful contrast to the rich lemon curd and the crispy tart shell. Made from just egg whites and sugar, the meringue is whipped to perfection to form stiff peaks that stand tall on each tart. When baked, the meringue develops a beautiful golden color, enhancing both the flavor and the visual appeal of the tarts.
Creating the perfect meringue may seem daunting, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve stunning results. Ensure that your mixing bowl is clean and free from any grease, as this can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Be patient when adding the sugar; gradual incorporation helps create a smooth and glossy meringue that will impress your guests.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts are versatile enough to make an appearance at any gathering. Whether it's a summer picnic, a holiday celebration, or a cozy family dinner, these tarts are sure to impress. Their mini size allows for easy serving and makes them a fantastic option for dessert tables, where guests can sample a variety of treats without feeling overwhelmed.
Additionally, these tarts can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your gatherings without the last-minute rush. Simply prepare the tart shells and lemon curd in advance, and whip up the meringue just before serving. Your guests will appreciate the effort that goes into making these delightful treats, and you'll love the positive feedback you receive!
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth preparation process.
For the Tart 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 Lemon Curd
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
For the Meringue
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Ensure you have everything prepped and ready to go before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts.
Make the Tart Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
Prepare the Lemon Curd
In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
Make the Meringue
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Spoon the meringue over the filled tarts, making peaks with a spatula.
Bake the Tarts
Bake the tarts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.
Once cooled, enjoy your delicious Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts!
Tips for Success
For the best results, always use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh lemons will provide the best flavor for your curd, and using unsalted butter will allow you to control the saltiness of the tart shells. Additionally, make sure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping them, as this will help achieve maximum volume.
Be mindful of the baking times. Overbaking the meringue can lead to a dry texture, while underbaking may result in a gooey consistency. Keep an eye on your tarts during the final bake to ensure that the meringue is perfectly browned and the tarts are ready to serve.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
If you have any leftover tarts, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within a day or two, as the meringue can start to weep over time. To refresh the tarts, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving to revive the crispness of the crust.
For added flair, consider garnishing your Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts with fresh berries or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the lemon curd beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the tart shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tart shells a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.
→ How do I store leftover tarts?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I substitute lime juice for lemon juice?
Yes, you can substitute lime juice for a different citrus flavor in the curd.
→ What can I do if my meringue doesn't form stiff peaks?
Make sure your mixing bowl is completely clean and free of any grease, and that your egg whites are at room temperature.
Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts
These delightful Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts are the perfect combination of tangy lemon curd and fluffy meringue, all nestled in a buttery tart shell.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 tarts
What You'll Need
For the Tart 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 Lemon Curd
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
For the Meringue
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until a dough forms. Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit a mini muffin tin. Press the dough into the molds and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden. Let cool.
In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and eggs. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Allow to cool slightly before filling the tart shells.
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Spoon the meringue over the filled tarts, making peaks with a spatula.
Bake the tarts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 3g