When it comes to delightful desserts, the allure of a Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue is simply irresistible. This vibrant treat not only captivates the eye with its bright colors but also enchants the palate with its zesty flavor profile. The refreshing lemon filling perfectly balances the sweetness of the lilac-infused meringue, creating a dessert that’s both light and delectable.
Moreover, these charming little tarts are perfect for any occasion, from garden parties to elegant gatherings. Each bite offers a burst of citrusy goodness, complemented by the soft, ethereal top of lilac meringue. With their unique combination of flavors and textures, Mini Lemon Tarts adorned with this whimsical meringue make for a standout dessert that will leave your guests raving.
Ingredients for Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue:
To make these delightful mini lemon tarts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– For the crust:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg yolk
– For the lemon filling:
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– For the lilac meringue:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
– A few drops lilac food coloring (optional)
– Garnish:
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
This irresistible mini lemon tart with lilac meringue combines zesty lemon flavors with a whimsical touch of lilac-colored meringue. For more lemon-inspired desserts, feel free to explore our Delicious Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe. Enjoy the perfect balance of tart and sweet with this elegant treat!
How to Prepare Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue:
Creating a stunning Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue is both an art and a delicious adventure. Begin by making the crust. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of powdered sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Cut in 1/2 cup of chilled, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, add 1 large egg yolk and mix until a dough forms. Press the dough into tartlet pans and then chill for 30 minutes.
While the crust sets, prepare the lemon filling. Whisk together 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this filling into the chilled crusts and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Cool completely.
For the lilac meringue, beat 3 egg whites until soft peaks form, gradually adding 1/2 cup granulated sugar until glossy. Add a few drops of lilac food coloring if desired. Spoon or pipe the meringue atop the cooled tarts and broil until lightly browned. Finish with fresh mint leaves for garnish. For more lemon-inspired recipes, check out our delicious lemon meringue pie recipe that perfectly complements this tart!
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Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful Mini Lemon Tarts topped with a floral lilac meringue, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter
chilled and cubed
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg yolk
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large egg whites
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
A few drops lilac food coloring (optional)
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, chilled butter, powdered sugar, and salt to form a crumbly mixture.
- Add the egg yolk and mix until the dough comes together.
- Press the dough into mini tart pans and bake for about 15 minutes or until golden.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, granulated sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla extract for the filling.
- Pour the lemon filling into the baked tart shells and return to the oven to bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- While the tarts cool, prepare the meringue by beating egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add the granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
- If desired, add lilac food coloring and mix gently.
- Top the cooled tarts with meringue and use a kitchen torch to lightly brown the meringue.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Notes
For a pastel meringue, add a few drops of lilac food coloring to achieve the desired shade.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini tartCalories
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: Mini Lemon Tart, Lilac Meringue, Dessert, Baking, Lemon Tart Recipe
Baking Tips:
When preparing your Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue, precision is key. Start with a chilled tart shell to ensure it holds its shape during baking. For the filling, use fresh lemons to extract the juiciest and most flavorful juice, which will enhance the tartness of your dessert. Remember to strain the lemon juice to remove any pulp for a smooth filling.
While making the lilac meringue, aim for soft peaks; this creates a light, airy texture. Gradually add sugar as the meringue whips to prevent graininess. For a visual treat, use a kitchen torch to toast the meringue lightly, creating a beautiful golden hue. If you love citrus desserts, check out our delicious lemon meringue pie recipe for more inspiration.
For full baking details and stunning visuals, visit this comprehensive guide. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Serving Suggestions:
Elevate the experience of your Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue by pairing it with complementary flavors and textures. Serve these delightful tarts alongside a refreshing arugula salad with grapes and sunflower seeds. The nutty crunch and fruity sweetness will beautifully contrast with the tart’s zesty filling.
Additionally, consider providing a side of classic tartar sauce, which adds creaminess to the meal, enhancing the entire dining experience. For a delightful drink option, a chilled glass of lemon-infused iced tea would harmonize perfectly with the citrus notes of your tarts.
For dessert lovers, offering mini cheesecakes as an additional sweet treat can create a charming dessert platter. Incorporating variety helps make your occasion truly special. Each component complements the Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue, rounding out the meal and enchanting your guests.
Storage Tips for Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue:
To keep your Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue fresh and delectable, proper storage is essential. When you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the tart’s bright flavors and light texture. It is best enjoyed within 2-3 days after baking for optimal taste, as the meringue can soften over time. If you need to prepare the tart ahead of time, consider storing the lemon filling and the meringue separately. For extra pest protection and to retain a crisp crust, wrap the tart lightly in plastic wrap.
If you’re a fan of lemon desserts, you might enjoy exploring my Classic Lemon Meringue Pie with a Flaky Homemade Crust for a traditional twist. Just remember, meringue typically holds best up to 24 hours. This way, you can always delight your guests with the best flavor and presentation!
Nutritional Information for Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue:
A delightful serving of Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue offers a tangy balance of nutrients. Each tart typically contains around 200 calories, with 10g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. This scrumptious treat can complement a balanced diet. For another citrusy delight, try our Classic Lemon Meringue Pie.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What ingredients are needed for the Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue?
To create these delightful little tarts, you’ll require a buttery tart shell, fresh lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs for the tangy filling. Additionally, for the lilac meringue, you’re going to need egg whites and sugar, along with edible lilac flowers for garnishing and flavor.
How do I achieve a perfect meringue topping?
For an exceptional lilac meringue, it’s essential to fully whip the egg whites until they reach stiff peaks. Gradually add sugar to achieve a glossy texture. Also, consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavor of your meringue atop the mini lemon tart.
Can I make the lemon tarts in advance?
Absolutely! These mini tarts can be prepared ahead of time. You can bake the tart shells and fill them with the lemon mixture a day in advance. Then, top with the lilac meringue just before serving to keep the texture light and airy.
What’s a good pairing for Mini Lemon Tart with Lilac Meringue?
These tarts pair wonderfully with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a light dessert wine. The tartness of the lemon complements the floral notes of the lilac beautifully.
Are there variations for the lemon filling?
Yes! You can customize the filling by adding various flavors, such as lavender or ginger, to add complexity to the zesty lemon flavor. If you enjoy lemon-infused treats, you might like the lemon meringue pie recipe for another citrusy dessert.
How do I store leftovers of the Mini Lemon Tart?
To store your delicious tarts, keep them covered in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume them within two days for optimal freshness, as the meringue may lose its texture over time.