Introduction

Amalfi Lemon Tart is a delightful dessert that hails from the beautiful Amalfi Coast of Italy. Known for its zesty flavor and rich texture, this tart combines a buttery crust with a creamy, sweet-and-sour lemon filling. The vibrant taste of Amalfi lemons sets this tart apart, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging at home, this recipe will impress your taste buds and those of your guests.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the pastry:
– 250g plain flour
– 125g unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 75g icing sugar
– 1 large egg yolk
– Zest of 1 lemon
– A pinch of salt

For the filling:
– 4 large eggs
– 250g caster sugar
– 200ml double cream
– Zest of 2 lemons (preferably Amalfi lemons)
– Juice of 3 lemons
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Prep Time

The preparation time for the Amalfi Lemon Tart is approximately 30 minutes. This includes making the pastry, chilling it, and preparing the filling.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 30 to 35 minutes in the oven. The total time needed for the entire recipe, including preparation and cooking, is about 1 hour. This recipe yields one tart, which typically serves 8 to 10 people, making it a great option for sharing with friends and family.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Tart Base

Begin 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 the mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually mix in the egg yolks and cold water to form a dough. Wrap the dough in cling film and chill for 30 minutes.

Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, roll the dough out on a floured surface to fit your tart tin. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the tin, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Bake the Tart Base

Prick the base of the tart with a fork and line it with baking parchment. Weigh it down with baking beans or rice and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the beans and parchment, then return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Lemon Filling

While the tart base is baking, prepare the lemon filling. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and heat over low until thickened, stirring constantly.

Assemble and Bake

Once thickened, remove the lemon filling from the heat and pour it into the pre-baked tart shell. Spread evenly and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until just set.

Cool and Serve

Allow the tart to cool completely before removing it from the tin. Dust with icing sugar before serving. Optionally, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Notes

Chilling the Dough

Ensure the dough is well-chilled to prevent shrinkage during baking.

Lemon Freshness

Use fresh lemons for juicing and zesting to achieve the best flavor in your tart.

Storage

Store any leftover tart in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

This tart pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar for presentation.

Cook techniques

Making the pastry

To create a buttery and flaky tart crust, combine flour, butter, and sugar, then rub the ingredients together until you have a fine crumb texture. Add water gradually until the dough comes together, then chill it before rolling out.

Baking the tart shell

Once the pastry is rolled out, place it in a tart tin. Blind bake the tart shell by covering it with parchment paper and filling it with baking beans to prevent it from puffing up during cooking. Remove the beans halfway through to allow the base to brown.

Preparing the lemon filling

For a zesty filling, whisk together eggs, sugar, and lemon juice. Ensure the mixture is well combined and smooth before pouring it into the pre-baked tart shell.

Baking the tart

Bake the filled tart in the oven at a moderate temperature until the filling is set and has a slight wobble in the center. This ensures a creamy texture once cooled.

Cooling and serving

Allow the tart to cool completely before removing it from the tin. Once cooled, dust with icing sugar for a finishing touch before slicing and serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of fruit for the tart filling?

Yes, you can substitute lemons with other citrus fruits or berries, but adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit used.

How can I tell when the tart is properly baked?

The tart is properly baked when the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center; it will firm up as it cools.

Can I prepare the pastry in advance?

Yes, you can make the pastry ahead of time. Wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

What should I serve with the Amalfi lemon tart?

This tart pairs well with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries for added flavor.

How do I store leftover tart?

Store any leftover tart in the fridge, covered, for up to three days for the best quality.

Conclusion

This Amalfi lemon tart is a delightful treat that combines the perfect balance of zesty flavors and a buttery crust. Its refreshing taste makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion, from summer gatherings to elegant dinners. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s sure to impress your guests and provide a moment of culinary bliss with each bite.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Lemon Meringue Pie

A twist on the tart, this pie features a fluffy meringue topping that complements the tartness of the lemon filling.

Berry Pavlova

Light and airy meringue topped with a mix of fresh berries and whipped cream offers a sweet and tangy dessert.

Citrus Tart with Orange and Grapefruit

Explore a citrus combination by creating a tart that uses orange and grapefruit for a vibrant, zesty flavor profile.

Chocolate Tart with Orange Zest

For those who love chocolate, a rich chocolate tart infused with orange zest provides a decadent alternative.

Pistachio and Lemon Cake

Combine the flavors of pistachio and lemon in a moist cake that can be served with a lemon glaze or fresh citrus syrup.

Frozen Lemon Cheesecake

A chilled cheesecake with a zesty lemon flavor, perfect for hot summer days and served with a berry compote.

Fruit Salad with Mint and Lime

A refreshing fruit salad dressed with lime and mint makes a great accompaniment to the tart for a light, refreshing finish.