lemon meringue tart recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both elegant and delicious, look no further than this lemon meringue tart recipe! With its buttery, crisp crust, silky smooth lemon curd, and fluffy, lightly toasted meringue, this dessert is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It’s the kind of treat that impresses at first glance and delights with every bite.

Did you know that lemon meringue pies date back to the 18th century? They were originally created as a way to use up leftover egg whites. Over time, bakers perfected the balance between tart citrus and sweet, airy meringue, making it a favorite worldwide. This tart version offers a more refined presentation, making it a fantastic choice for special occasions.

Compared to other desserts like Classic Cheesecake or Chocolate Lava Cake, this lemon meringue tart is lighter and refreshingly citrusy—perfect for cleansing the palate after a rich meal. Plus, it’s easier to make than you think! So, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s dive into the magic of making it!

What is Lemon Meringue Tart?

Ah, the Lemon Meringue Tart! Doesn’t it just sound fancy? But don’t let the name intimidate you—it’s just a delightful twist on the classic Lemon Meringue Pie, featuring a crisp tart shell instead of a pie crust. It’s the ultimate combination of zesty lemon curd and sweet, cloud-like meringue, all nestled in a flaky, golden base.

But why is it called a tart? Well, simply put, tarts have shallower, crisper crusts than pies, allowing the lemon filling to shine without getting lost in too much pastry. And as they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach—so if you’re looking to impress, this dessert is a surefire way to do it! Ready to give it a try? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Meringue Tart

• Perfect Balance of Flavors – The tartness of fresh lemon curd perfectly contrasts with the light, sweet meringue and the buttery crust.
• Budget-Friendly & Homemade – Store-bought versions can be pricey, but making it at home costs much less and tastes even better.
• Versatile & Impressive – Whether it’s a casual brunch or a fancy dinner party, this tart fits any occasion.

If you love citrusy desserts, you might also enjoy our Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake! But for now, let’s stick with this tangy masterpiece. Continue reading to discover how to create this delicious treat!

How to Make Lemon Meringue Tart

Quick Overview

This recipe is surprisingly simple! You’ll make a crisp, buttery tart shell, whip up a vibrant lemon curd, and finish with a dreamy, toasted meringue. It takes about 1 hour from start to finish, plus cooling time. The result? A bakery-worthy dessert that’ll steal the show!

Key Ingredients for Lemon Meringue Tart

• For the Tart Crust:
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tbsp cold water
• For the Lemon Curd Filling:
  • 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• For the Meringue Topping:
  • 4 egg whites
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Tart Crust:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan.
   • In a food processor, pulse flour, butter, and sugar until crumbly.
   • Add egg yolk and cold water, pulsing until dough forms.
   • Roll out and press into the tart pan. Chill for 15 minutes.
   • Prick with a fork, line with parchment paper and baking weights, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights and bake another 5-7 minutes. Let cool.
2. Prepare the Lemon Curd:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together lemon juice, zest, sugar, and egg yolks.
   • Stir constantly until thickened (about 5 minutes).
   • Remove from heat, stir in butter until smooth, and pour into the cooled tart shell.
3. Make the Meringue:
   • Whisk the egg whites until they form foam, then incorporate the cream of tartar.
   • Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
   • Fold in vanilla extract.
4. Assemble & Bake:
   • Spoon meringue over lemon curd, spreading to the edges.
   • Use a spoon to create peaks.
   • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown.
   • Cool completely before serving.

What to Serve Lemon Meringue Tart With

Pair this tart with:

• A cup of Earl Grey tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Fresh berries for a burst of fruity contrast.
• A glass of sparkling wine to elevate your dessert game.

Top Tips for Perfecting Lemon Meringue Tart

• Chill the Crust – Letting the dough rest prevents shrinking during baking.
• Avoid Overcooking the Curd – Remove from heat once it thickens to keep it silky.
• Make a Stable Meringue – Add sugar gradually to get a glossy, firm topping.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the tart (without meringue) for up to a month. Add fresh meringue when serving.
• Reheating: If needed, warm slices in a low oven (275°F) for 5 minutes.

This Lemon Meringue Tart is everything you need in a dessert—light, tangy, and beautifully balanced. Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to put on your apron and start baking! Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you, and don’t forget to share your photos. Happy baking!