Introduction

Lemon curd tart is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. This classic recipe by Jamie Oliver showcases a buttery pastry base filled with luscious lemon curd, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether served at a dinner party, a family gathering, or simply as a treat, this tart will impress and satisfy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the pastry:
– 250g plain flour
– 125g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 70g icing sugar
– 1 large egg

For the lemon curd:
– 4 large eggs
– 250g caster sugar
– 150ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Grated zest of 2 lemons
– 100g unsalted butter

Prep Time

The preparation time for the lemon curd tart is approximately 30 minutes. This includes making the pastry and preparing the lemon curd.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time for the tart is around 30 minutes, with a total time from start to finish of about 1 hour. This recipe yields 8 servings, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, icing sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add cold, cubed butter and rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Mix in the egg yolks and a tablespoon of cold water to form a dough. Pat the dough into a disc, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry

Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm thick. Carefully transfer the rolled pastry to a tart tin, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess pastry.

Step 3: Blind Bake the Pastry

Prick the base of the pastry with a fork to prevent bubbling. Line it with parchment paper and fill with baking beans or rice. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment and weights, then return the tart shell to the oven for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Curd

While the pastry is baking, zest and juice the lemons. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole eggs, and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually stir in the lemon juice and zest, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Cook the Lemon Curd

Transfer the mixture to a saucepan over low heat and add butter. Stir continuously until the curd thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which may take about 10 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and strain through a sieve for a smooth texture.

Step 6: Fill the Tart Shell

Remove the tart shell from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Pour the freshly made lemon curd into the pastry shell, spreading it evenly. Bake again for about 10-15 minutes until the curd is just set.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the tart to cool completely to room temperature before serving. Garnish with a dusting of icing sugar or whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Storage

Keep the lemon curd tart in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered to maintain freshness.

Variations

Consider adding a hint of vanilla or a splash of elderflower cordial to the lemon curd for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Cook techniques

Shortcrust Pastry

Shortcrust pastry is made by combining flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. The key is to keep the butter cold to achieve a flaky texture. Once mixed, rest the dough in the refrigerator before rolling it out for a tart base.

Blind Baking

Blind baking involves pre-baking the pastry without the filling. Use baking beans or weights to prevent the base from puffing up. This technique ensures a crisp crust for your tart.

Making Lemon Curd

Lemon curd is created by heating lemon juice, sugar, butter, and eggs together until thickened. Stir continuously to avoid curdling and achieve a smooth consistency. Strain the mixture to remove any solids for a silky finish.

Assembling the Tart

Once the lemon curd has cooled, pour it into the pre-baked pastry shell. Spread it evenly and level the surface with a spatula for a polished look.

Chilling

After assembling, let the tart cool in the refrigerator for a few hours. This step allows the lemon curd to set perfectly, making it easier to slice and serve.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pastry for this tart?

Yes, store-bought pastry can save time. Choose a quality shortcrust pastry for the best results.

How long does the lemon curd last?

Homemade lemon curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.

Can I substitute other fruits for lemon curd?

Yes, you can use other citrus fruits, such as limes or oranges, to make a different flavored curd.

What can I serve with the lemon curd tart?

Serve the tart with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dusting of icing sugar for added flavor and presentation.

Is this tart suitable for freezing?

It is best to freeze the tart without the lemon curd filling. Baked pastry can be frozen, but once filled, it is recommended to consume it fresh.

Conclusion

The lemon curd tart is a delightful dessert that balances the tartness of lemon with a smooth, sweet filling, all encased in a buttery pastry. It serves as a perfect end to any meal, showcasing bright flavors that refresh the palate. This recipe invites creativity, allowing for variations and themes that cater to every occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or with delightful toppings, this tart is sure to impress.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Berry Tart Variation

Incorporate mixed berries such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries on top of your lemon curd for a colorful and flavorful twist.

Coconut Cream Topping

Add a layer of whipped coconut cream on top of the lemon curd to create a tropical-inspired dessert that complements the citrus beautifully.

Ginger Crust

Substitute the traditional tart crust with a ginger cookie crust for an added spice that pairs wonderfully with the lemon curd.

Chocolate Drizzle

Finish your lemon tart with a drizzle of dark chocolate, creating a luxurious balance between tart and sweet flavors.

Lemon Meringue Twist

Top the tart with a fluffy meringue for a classic lemon meringue pie experience that adds a delightful texture to the dessert.