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Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue

Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue for Elegant Spring Treats

Indulge in the delightful Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue, a perfect blend of tangy lemon curd and fluffy meringue for a charming dessert.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 42 minutes
Servings: 12 tarts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Spring
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Shell
  • 1 cup Flour Substitute with gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar Can be replaced with granulated sugar, but texture will vary.
  • 1/2 cup Butter Use cold vegan butter as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 large Egg Yolk No suitable substitute for strict vegan diets.
  • 2 tablespoons Water Use ice-cold water for best results.
For the Lemon Curd
  • 1/2 cup Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed is best; bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Optional for added intensity.
  • 1/2 cup Sugar Adjust to taste.
  • 3 large Eggs Use vegan alternatives if necessary.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Can use salted butter and reduce added salt if needed.
For the Lilac Meringue
  • 2 large Egg Whites Aquafaba can be used as a vegan alternative.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cream of Tartar Can be omitted but may affect texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Substitute with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
  • A few drops Violet Food Coloring Can use beet juice or butterfly pea flower extract as a natural option.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • medium saucepan
  • Electric mixer
  • Kitchen Torch

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a food processor, combine flour and powdered sugar, pulsing until well mixed. Add cold butter, pulsing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Incorporate the egg yolk and ice-cold water, pulsing until the dough forms. Chill the dough for 30 minutes, then preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and press it evenly into mini tart pans, baking for 10–12 minutes until golden. Let the tart shells cool completely on a wire rack.
  2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 8–10 minutes, or until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in unsalted butter until melted and smooth. Allow the curd to cool slightly before filling the cooled tart shells. Chill the tarts in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the curd to set.
  3. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar. Place the bowl over simmering water, gently mixing until the mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and beat with an electric mixer for about 5–7 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in vanilla extract and violet food coloring to create a beautiful lilac hue. Pipe the meringue onto the cooled tart shells, creating swirls or peaks for a lovely finish.
  4. Using a kitchen torch, lightly toast the tips of the lilac meringue until they turn a golden brown, being careful not to burn. For an elegant touch, garnish your Mini Lemon Tarts with edible lilac petals or a sprinkle of dried lavender. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to delight your guests with this beautiful spring dessert.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tartCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 60mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chill the tarts for a minimum of 1 hour to set the lemon curd perfectly. Use room-temperature egg whites for the meringue for better volume.

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