Mini Lemon Tartlets

Name: Mini Lemon Tartlets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Highlighted under: Sweet Favorites

I love making Mini Lemon Tartlets because they are the perfect balance of sweet and tart in each bite. These little treats have a buttery, crumbly crust filled with a creamy lemon filling that is refreshing and light. Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a special dessert for myself, these tartlets are always a hit. The best part? They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully before serving.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-08T16:13:41.210Z

When I first set out to create these Mini Lemon Tartlets, my goal was to capture the essence of summer in a dessert that everyone could enjoy. I experimented with various crust recipes and landed on the perfect buttery blend that complements the zingy lemon filling. It's all about balance, and the combination of sweet and tangy flavors bursts in your mouth, making each bite a delightful experience.

One important tip I discovered is to let the lemon filling cool slightly before pouring it into the crust. This helps prevent any sogginess and ensures that the tartlets hold their shape beautifully. Every time I serve these charming desserts, I am reminded of how simple ingredients can create such memorable flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor that refreshes your palate
Buttery and crumbly crust that perfectly complements the filling
Individual servings that are perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Crust

The crust is the foundation of these Mini Lemon Tartlets, so achieving the right texture is key. Using cold, softened butter helps create a flaky, tender crust. When mixing the butter with the dry ingredients, be careful not to over-mix; you want a crumbly consistency that holds together without becoming a dough. Press the crust firmly into the tart pan without stretching it; this helps it maintain its shape during baking.

Bake the crust until it's lightly golden, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C). A visual cue to look for is the edges starting to turn golden brown. If the crust puffs up during baking, gently press it back down with the back of a spoon immediately after taking it out of the oven—this keeps the crust level for your filling.

Crafting the Filling

The filling combines the tartness of fresh lemon juice with the sweetness of sugar, creating a captivating balance. For the best flavor, always use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled versions; it makes a huge difference in brightness and freshness. Additionally, incorporating lemon zest enhances the aromatic profile, letting the citrus essence shine through in every bite.

When preparing the filling, whisk the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a smooth mixture without lumps. The cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, which helps the filling set properly after baking. Make sure to pour the filling into the crust while it’s still slightly warm for best results, as the heat helps the filling to blend better and reduces baking time to about 15-20 minutes until just set.

Serving and Variations

These Mini Lemon Tartlets are delightful on their own, but they can be enhanced with various toppings. A light dusting of powdered sugar is classic, but you could also add a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess, or fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. Lemon slices can add an elegant touch, making them suitable for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal events.

If you're looking to customize your tartlets, consider adding herbs like fresh mint to the filling for a unique twist, or even a splash of vanilla to round out the flavors. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that your friends with dietary restrictions can enjoy these treats as well. Just be sure to check if the blend contains xanthan gum for best results.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Mini Lemon Tartlets:

For the crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling

3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon cornstarch

Once you've assembled your ingredients, you're ready to start making these delightful tartlets!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mini Lemon Tartlets:

Prepare the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, salt, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottoms and up the sides of a mini tart pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool.

Make the filling

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well.

Bake the tartlets

Once the crust is cool, pour the filling into each tartlet shell. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the filling is set. Let cool before removing from the pan.

Serve

Garnish with powdered sugar or lemon slices and serve chilled or at room temperature.

And there you have it! Your Mini Lemon Tartlets are ready to enjoy.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch, consider adding a few drops of vanilla extract to the filling. It adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with lemon.

Storage Tips

Once your Mini Lemon Tartlets have cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows time for the flavors to mature and intensify, making them even more delicious when served. Just be careful to keep them separate so that the crust remains crisp and doesn’t absorb moisture from other foods.

If you want to make these tartlets ahead of time, consider preparing the crust a day in advance. After baking, store it at room temperature until you're ready to fill and bake. As for the filling, it can be whisked and prepared a few hours before baking, as it holds well in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before pouring into the crust.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your filling doesn’t set after baking, it may not have been baked long enough. Keep an eye on the filling; once the edges look set but the center is still slightly jiggly, it's ready to cool. A few additional minutes in the oven can also help if the filling is too loose when you first check.

For a crust that crumbles too easily, check your butter measurements; too little butter can lead to a dry crust. If you find that your crust shrinks in the pan, it may be due to overworking the dough. Always handle the dough gently and allow it to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these tartlets in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tartlet shells and the filling a day ahead. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What should I store the tartlets in?

Store the tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

→ What can I do with leftover filling?

Leftover filling can be used to make mini lemon puddings or drizzled over pancakes!