How to Make Classic French Tarte au Citron

Tarte au Citron, or lemon tart, is a quintessential French dessert known for its zesty flavor and rich texture. This classic recipe incorporates a buttery tart crust filled with a smooth and tangy lemon custard, making it a delightful end to any meal. Follow these simple steps to make a perfect Tarte au Citron at home.

Ingredients

For the tart shell:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the lemon filling:

4 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
2 tablespoons lemon zest
½ cup heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Shell

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Add the chilled butter, and using your fingertips, rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Add the egg yolk and mix it into the flour mixture. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

3. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Tart Shell

4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim the edges.

5. To prevent the crust from puffing up, line it with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.

6. Bake the tart shell for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Let it cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Filling

7. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until well combined and slightly frothy.

8. Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream to the egg mixture. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Bake the Tarte au Citron

9. Pour the lemon filling into the cooled tart shell. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.

10. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

11. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices or fresh berries, if desired.

12. Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert that captures the essence of France!

Tips for the Perfect Tarte au Citron

Use fresh lemons for the best flavor – avoid bottled lemon juice.
Don’t overbake the filling; it should remain slightly wobbly in the center.
For a twist, try adding a touch of fresh herbs like mint for garnish.

Making a classic French Tarte au Citron may seem daunting, but with this straightforward recipe, you can easily impress your family and friends. Bon appétit!