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Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue

Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue for a Sweet Escape

This Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue is a delightful dessert that blends tangy citrus and sweet meringue, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Powdered sugar Regular granulated sugar can be used but may change the consistency.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Essential for balancing sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Chilled butter Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
For the Lemon Curd
  • 1/2 cup Fresh lemon juice Can be substituted with bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh is recommended for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar Coconut sugar can be used as a less processed alternative.
  • 3 large Eggs Egg replacers can be tried for a vegan version, although the result may differ.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon zest Avoid substitution for optimal flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Almond extract can be used for a different flavor profile.
For the Lilac Meringue
  • 3 large Egg whites Meringue powder could be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Lilac food coloring Optional, can be replaced with any desired food coloring.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Piping bag
  • Tart pans
  • Baking Sheet
  • saucepan
  • Pastry cutter
  • Spatula
  • Kitchen torch

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Form the dough into a ball, then roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to create circles for the tart pans, then prick the bases with a fork. Chill the prepared crusts for 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chilled tart crusts in your tart pans and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
  3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thickened, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly for 10 minutes before pouring into cooled tart shells.
  4. Carefully pour the lemon curd into the baked mini tart shells, filling them to the top. Use a spatula to smooth the surface if needed. Let the tarts sit at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the curd to set.
  5. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add granulated sugar until stiff peaks form, about 4-5 minutes. If desired, fold in lilac food coloring.
  6. Transfer the lilac meringue into a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip. Pipe the meringue in a circular motion on each tart, creating peaks.
  7. Using a kitchen torch, toast the tops of the lilac meringue until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, place the tarts under a broiler set to low for a few seconds.
  8. For presentation, garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers before serving. Arrange the tarts on a platter.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tartCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 15gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. Avoid overmixing the meringue to keep it airy. Refrigerate the tarts after filling for best results.

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