Lunar Lemon Tart: A Zesty and Elegant Dessert to Illuminate Your Table
Inspired by the soft glow of the moon, the Lunar Lemon Tart brings together a crisp, buttery crust and a vibrant lemon curd filling. It’s the perfect dessert to impress guests or elevate a quiet afternoon with a burst of citrus brightness. With just the right balance of sweet and tart, this recipe delivers a smooth, tangy finish in every bite.
Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2–3 tbsp ice water (as needed)
Lemon Filling:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
1. Make the Tart Crust
In a bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and cut it in using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Blend in the egg yolk, then slowly mix in the ice water just until the dough forms. Flatten it into a disk, wrap it, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Blind Bake the Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan and press it into place. Trim the edges, line with parchment, and add pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for 10 more minutes until lightly golden. Let the shell cool completely.
3. Cook the Lemon Filling
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the lemon juice, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, melted butter, and salt. Heat over medium, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 10–15 minutes). Strain it through a fine sieve to ensure a smooth, creamy filling.
4. Assemble and Bake
Pour the lemon filling into the cooled tart crust and smooth the surface. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes, just until the center is set with a slight wobble. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Serving Ideas
Serve chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar, thin lemon slices, or whipped cream. You can also decorate it with fresh berries or edible flowers for a refined finish.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh citrus: Always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
- Chill your crust dough: This helps prevent shrinkage and ensures a crisp shell.
- Strain the filling: It guarantees a velvety texture free from lumps.
- Keep an eye on baking time: Overbaking may cause the filling to lose its smooth consistency.
Final Thoughts
The Lunar Lemon Tart is an elegant dessert that merges visual appeal with bold citrus flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want something refreshing, this tart is sure to brighten your table and your tastebuds.
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