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Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue

Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue for a Spring Delight

Delight in these charming Mini Lemon Tarts with Lilac Meringue, a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors, making them a spring favorite.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 12 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Shell
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Swap for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Powdered sugar Adds sweetness and tender texture.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Use cold for best results.
  • 2 large Egg yolks Consider a flax egg for vegan alternative.
  • 2-3 tbsp Water For bringing the dough together.
For the Lemon Curd
  • 1/2 cup Fresh lemon juice Always opt for fresh for the best taste.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar Balance the tartness.
  • 2 large Eggs Aquafaba can substitute for vegan option.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted butter Adds creaminess.
For the Lilac Meringue
  • 2 large Egg whites Ensure free of yolk for proper whipping.
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Stabilizes and sweetens.
  • 1/4 tsp Cream of tartar Helps stabilize meringue.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • as needed Violet food coloring Optional, natural options can be used.
For Garnish
  • as needed Edible lilac petals Enhances flavor and presentation.
  • as needed Dried lavender For garnish.

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Medium saucepan
  • Electric mixer
  • heatproof bowl
  • Piping bag
  • kitchen torch

Method
 

Make the Tart Shells
  1. Combine all-purpose flour and powdered sugar in a food processor, pulsing until well mixed. Add cold unsalted butter and process until crumbly. Mix in egg yolk and enough water to form a dough. Chill for 30 minutes, then roll out, line mini tart pans, prick the bases, and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
Prepare the Lemon Curd
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs until thick, about 8-10 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent curdling. Mix in butter until smooth. Pour into cooled tart shells and chill for at least one hour.
Make the Lilac Meringue
  1. Whisk egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until warm and sugar dissolves. Beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form and glossy, about 5-7 minutes. Fold in vanilla and optional food coloring.
Toast and Garnish
  1. Carefully toast the tips of the lilac meringue using a kitchen torch. Garnish with edible lilac petals or dried lavender just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tartCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure to chill the dough to avoid shrinkage. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavors. Pipe meringue beautifully for an appealing finish.

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