Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite festive treat: the Christmas Lemon Custard Tart! It’s like a burst of sunshine on a chilly winter day! The tangy lemon flavor is so refreshing, and it always brings a smile to my face, especially when I serve it during holiday gatherings. I remember the first time I made this tart—my family couldn’t get enough of it! I love how the sweet and zesty custard fills the buttery tart shell, creating a delightful contrast that feels both comforting and celebratory. Trust me, this tart isn’t just a dessert; it’s a tradition in my home, and it’s bound to become a cherished part of yours too. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and spread some holiday cheer!
Ingredients for Christmas Lemon Custard Tart
To whip up this delightful tart, you’ll need some simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 pre-made tart shell
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (don’t skip this for that extra zing!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Powdered sugar for dusting, to give it that perfect finishing touch
Trust me, using fresh lemons makes all the difference in flavor! You’ll want to make sure everything is ready to go before you start mixing, so it’s super smooth sailing from there. Let’s get baking!
How to Prepare the Christmas Lemon Custard Tart
Preheat the Oven
First things first—let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your tart bakes evenly, giving you that perfect golden top and creamy center. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!
Mix the Ingredients
Now, grab a bowl and whisk together the sugar and eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes should do the trick. You want to see that lovely pale yellow color, which means the sugar is dissolving nicely! Next, it’s time to add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. Stir that in well; the aroma will be heavenly! Keep whisking until everything is fully combined and you have a silky custard. This step is where the magic happens, so don’t rush it. Make sure there are no lumps, and you’ll be rewarded with a tart that’s bursting with flavor!
Combine with Heavy Cream
Once your mixture is smooth, gently fold in the heavy cream. This adds a luscious richness that balances the tangy lemon. Make sure everything is well combined, but be careful not to overmix—just a few good stirs should do it!
Pour and Bake
Now, it’s time to pour that beautiful lemon custard into your pre-made tart shell. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for a lovely bake. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—don’t worry, it’ll firm up as it cools!
Cool and Serve
Once your tart is out of the oven, let it cool at room temperature for a bit. Then, for the best flavor, chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Right before serving, dust it with powdered sugar for that gorgeous finish! The contrast of the sweet dusting against the bright lemon custard is just stunning. Enjoy each bite of this festive delight!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Christmas Lemon Custard Tart turns out perfectly, here are my top tips:
- Quality Ingredients: Always use fresh lemons for juicing and zesting. The flavor difference is incredible!
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing—they’ll incorporate better and create a smoother custard.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the heavy cream, mix just until combined to keep your tart light and airy.
- Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different! The tart should be set with a slight jiggle in the middle.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the tart to chill after baking; it enhances the flavors and makes for a refreshing dessert.
Nutritional Information for Christmas Lemon Custard Tart
Each slice of this festive tart is estimated to contain about 250 calories, with 12g of fat (7g saturated), 4g of protein, and 32g of carbohydrates. It also has 20g of sugar and 150mg of sodium. Remember, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used!
FAQ About Christmas Lemon Custard Tart
Got questions about this delightful tart? I’ve got you covered!
How should I store the tart? Keep your tart in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, and it retains its flavor beautifully!
Can I make this tart ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, which actually enhances the flavors. Just remember to chill it before serving!
What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you need a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but be aware it may alter the creaminess a bit.
What’s a good pairing for this tart? This tangy treat pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or a festive glass of sparkling wine. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
- Simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.
- Refreshing lemon taste that brightens up any festive gathering.
- Beautiful presentation that impresses family and friends.
- A delightful tradition that’s sure to become a favorite!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Christmas Lemon Custard Tart experience, serve it alongside a steaming cup of herbal tea or a rich cup of coffee—trust me, the flavors complement each other beautifully! For a festive twist, consider pairing it with a glass of bubbly sparkling wine or a warm spiced cider. Enjoy the delightful combination!
For more delicious recipes, check out this lemon dump cake recipe or this lemon meringue pie recipe!
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Christmas Lemon Custard Tart: 5 Tips for Festive Joy
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive lemon custard tart perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made tart shell
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together sugar and eggs until smooth.
- Add lemon juice and zest, mix well.
- Stir in heavy cream until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into the tart shell.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until set.
- Let it cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- Chill the tart in the refrigerator before serving for a refreshing taste.
- This tart can be made a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Christmas Lemon Custard Tart