Print

Easy Lemon Curd Tartlets | Mother’s Day Baking Ideas

Zesty Lemon Curd Tartlets – A Bite of Sunshine!

There’s something magical about homemade lemon curd—it’s like capturing sunshine in a spoon! These adorable tartlets have a crisp, buttery pastry filled with smooth, tangy lemon curd. Perfect for special occasions like Mother’s Day, Easter, or an elegant afternoon tea, they’re as delightful to look at as they are to eat. With just six simple ingredients, you’ll have a treat that’s both impressive and incredibly easy to make. Try shaping them into pretty flowers for an extra touch of charm! Who’s ready for a citrusy delight?

Ingredients

For the shortcrust pastry:

 2 packs ready-rolled shortcrust pastry (320g each)

For the lemon curd:

 4 medium lemons (juice and zest)
 200g caster sugar
 4 medium eggs (room temperature)
 50g unsalted butter (room temperature)

For decoration:

 2 tbsp icing sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Pastry Cases:

  • Generously butter a mini cupcake tray.
  • Unroll the pastry and cut out circles (or use a flower-shaped cutter for a cute twist!).
  • Press into the tray, prick the bottoms with a fork, and chill for 1 hour.
  • Preheat oven to 180°C fan / 200°C conventional and bake for 15 minutes until golden. Let cool.

2️⃣ Prepare the Lemon Curd:

  • In a saucepan, combine lemon zest, juice, sugar, and butter over medium-low heat. Stir until melted.
  • Whisk three egg yolks and one whole egg, then slowly whisk into the saucepan.
  • Cook, stirring continuously, until thickened (about 5-10 minutes).
  • Strain to remove zest, then let cool.

3️⃣ Assemble the Tartlets:

  • Dust the pastry cases with icing sugar.
  • Fill each one with lemon curd and chill until set.

Notes

Use Room-Temperature Eggs – This ensures a smoother, silkier lemon curd without lumps.
Chill the Pastry Before Baking – It prevents shrinking and keeps the tartlets crisp.
Whisk Constantly While Cooking the Curd – This avoids scrambled eggs and creates a creamy texture.
Strain the Lemon Curd – This step removes zest bits for a smoother finish.
Make Ahead – The lemon curd can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week, and the pastry cases can be baked a day in advance.
Decorate Creatively – Add fresh berries, edible flowers, or a dusting of icing sugar for extra charm!

Nutrition