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Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue: A Floral Spring Indulgence

Indulge in delightful Mini Lemon Tarts with Lilac Meringue, combining zesty lemon and floral flavors for a refreshing spring treat.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 12 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: French
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Shell
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Substitute with almond flour for gluten-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Powdered sugar Adds sweetness and a fine texture.
  • 1/2 cup Cold butter Essential for flakiness; keep it very cold.
  • 1 large Egg yolk Contributes richness.
  • 2-3 tablespoons Ice water Hydrates the dough.
For the Lemon Curd
  • 1/2 cup Lemon juice Freshly squeezed is best.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon zest Intensifies lemon flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar Sweetens and balances the acidity.
  • 2 large Eggs Thickens the lemon curd.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds creaminess.
For the Lilac Meringue
  • 2 large Egg whites Provides structure and volume.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar Stabilizes the egg whites.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cream of tartar Helps achieve stiff peaks.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
  • optional Violet food coloring For a soft lilac hue.
For Garnishing
  • to taste Edible lilac petals or dried lavender Elegant finishing touch.

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Medium saucepan
  • Electric mixer
  • Kitchen Torch
  • Mini Tart Pans

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a food processor, blend together all-purpose flour and powdered sugar until combined. Add the cold butter, pulsing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the egg yolk and gradually add ice water until a dough forms. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and press it into mini tart pans, pricking the bases with a fork. Line with parchment and baking weights, then bake for 10–12 minutes until golden. Let the shells cool completely.
  3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, and eggs. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously for 8–10 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in butter until smooth. Pour the lemon curd into cooled tart shells and chill for at least 1 hour.
  4. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg whites, granulated sugar, and cream of tartar until warm. Beat the mixture on high speed for about 5–7 minutes until stiff peaks form. Gently mix in vanilla extract and optional violet food coloring. Pipe the lilac meringue onto the cooled tarts.
  5. Using a kitchen torch, toast the peaks of the lilac meringue until lightly golden. Garnish with edible lilac petals or dried lavender before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, always use fresh ingredients. Adjust the sugar in your lemon curd to taste according to the tartness of your lemons.