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Best Lemon Meringue Tartlets Recipe

Lemon meringue tartlets are a delightful treat that perfectly balances the zesty tartness of lemon curd with the sweet, fluffy texture of meringue. These individual-sized desserts are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavour, making them a favourite at afternoon teas, summer celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create the best lemon meringue tartlets, complete with a buttery shortcrust pastry, vibrant lemon curd, and a cloud-like meringue topping.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

• 225g plain flour
• 125g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 50g icing sugar
• 1 large free-range egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Lemon Curd

• 4 large free-range eggs
• 150g granulated sugar
• 125ml freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 3-4 lemons)
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 100g unsalted butter, cubed

For the Meringue

• 3 large free-range egg whites
• 175g granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and icing sugar. Add the chilled, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.

2. Chill: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F.

4. Roll the Dough: Once chilled, roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm thick. Use a pastry cutter to cut out rounds that will fit your tartlet tins (usually about 10cm in diameter).

5. Fit the Tins: Carefully press the pastry rounds into the bases of your tartlet tins. Prick the bases with a fork, and place them in the refrigerator for another 15 minutes to chill.

6. Blind Bake: Line the chilled pastry cases with baking paper and fill with baking beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the paper and beans and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Allow to cool.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Curd

1. Whisk the Ingredients: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and zest.

2. Cook the Curd: Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method) and cook, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Add the Butter: Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the cubed butter until melted and smooth. Allow the lemon curd to cool slightly before pouring it into the cooled pastry cases. Fill each tartlet to the brim.

Step 3: Make the Meringue

1. Whisk the Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.

2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to whisk on high speed. Add the cream of tartar and vanilla extract. Whisk until the meringue is glossy and holds stiff peaks.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Top the Tartlets: Spoon or pipe the meringue over the lemon curd in each tartlet, ensuring it completely covers the curd and creates peaks for texture.

2. Bake the Meringue: Place the tartlets in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden.

3. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature. For best results, chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish your lemon meringue tartlets with a dusting of icing sugar or a twist of lemon zest for an added touch. Serve them as an enchanting dessert at your next gathering, or simply enjoy them with a cup of tea.

Conclusion

These lemon meringue tartlets are not only a feast for the eyes but also an absolute treat for the taste buds. With a buttery pastry, a zesty filling, and a cloud of meringue, they combine the best of textures and flavours. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe promises to become a favourite in your home. So roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the joy of baking!