Lemon Cream Tartlets with Meringue Topping

These delightful lemon cream tartlets topped with meringue are a perfect treat for any occasion. The tartness of freshly squeezed lemons provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet meringue topping. Featuring a creamy citrus filling nestled in a crisp pastry shell, each bite is a burst of flavor. The meringue is perfectly browned, adding a touch of caramelization that enhances the overall presentation. This dessert is perfect for serving at afternoon teas, special celebrations, or just as a sweet finale to a meal. With a balance of textures and flavors, these lemon tartlets are sure to impress. The preparation involves simple steps, making it suitable even for novice bakers. Plus, there are various ways to adjust the recipe to suit different dietary preferences. Follow these comprehensive instructions to create a dessert that will leave your guests wanting more.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

4 eggs
1 cup + 4 tablespoons sugar
4 lemons
2 tablespoons butter
350 ml water
5 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon flour
A pinch of salt
15 shortcrust pastry shells

For the Filling:

3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup sugar
A pinch of salt
Zest of 4 lemons
Juice of 4 lemons
2 egg yolks

For the Meringue:

2 egg whites
4 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch

Preparation Time

Total time: Approximately 40 minutes, including both preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by separating the egg yolks and whites. Zest and juice the lemons, ensuring you reserve both zest and juice for later use.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of flour, 1 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Boil and Blend: In a saucepan, bring 350 ml of water to a boil and melt the butter in the hot water. Gradually add the cornstarch and flour mixture to the boiling water while stirring on low heat.
Add Lemon Mixture: Once the mixture begins to thicken, add in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg yolks. Stir continuously to combine.
Cool the Filling: Allow the mixture to come to a boil once more, then set it aside to cool down.
Prepare Meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with 4 tablespoons of sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch gently.
Fill the Tartlets: Spoon the cooled lemon cream into the shortcrust pastry shells.
Top with Meringue: Gently spread the meringue on top of each filled tartlet.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 170°C (338°F). Bake the tartlets for about 15 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the tartlets to cool slightly before serving.

Tips

Substitutions: You can substitute lime for lemon if you prefer a slightly different citrus flavor.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Presentation: Use a blowtorch for additional browning on the meringue for an impressive finish.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 150 per tartlet
Protein: 2g
Fats: 7g
Carbs: 21g

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pastry shells and flour.
Vegan: Replace eggs with a suitable vegan egg substitute and butter with vegan butter.

Serving Suggestions

Tea Pairing: Ideal served with a hot cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea.
Garnishes: Add fresh berries or mint leaves for an elegant presentation.

Best Places

Café Central - Known for its charming Viennese ambiance and pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Tartine Bakery - Famous for its artisanal creations. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
Ladurée - Celebrated for its French pastries. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers classic Italian sweets. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a Milan, Italy.
Claridge’s Foyer & Reading Room - Renowned for its afternoon tea service. Location: Brook St, Mayfair, London, UK.
Demel - Historical café offering exquisite pastries. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Aman Tokyo Lounge - Luxurious setting with elegant sweets. Location: The Otemachi Tower, Tokyo, Japan.
Passion Café - Specializes in healthy, flavorful treats. Location: C/ de la Mar, 1D, Palma, Spain.
Shakespeare and Co. Café - Cozy café with a literary twist. Location: Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE.
Twelve Sugarcubes - Offers creative and colorful desserts. Location: Chungdam-dong, Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea.