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lemon meringue tart

A classic Lemon Meringue Tart featuring a buttery shortcrust base, tangy lemon curd filling, and a fluffy, toasted meringue topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 23 tbsp cold water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 34 lemons)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for meringue)
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. To make the crust, combine flour and powdered sugar in a bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add the egg yolk and water gradually until the dough comes together. Chill for 30 minutes.
  4. Roll out the dough and press into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool.
  5. To make the lemon curd, whisk together eggs, sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a saucepan over medium heat.
  6. Cook, stirring constantly until thickened (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and whisk in butter until smooth.
  7. Pour the lemon curd into the cooled tart shell and chill for at least 1 hour.
  8. For the meringue, beat egg whites with cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
  9. Spread or pipe the meringue over the lemon filling, sealing the edges.
  10. Toast the meringue under a broiler for 1–2 minutes or use a kitchen torch until golden brown.
  11. Cool slightly before serving. Store in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Ensure the meringue touches the crust edges to prevent shrinking.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
  • The tart is best eaten the day it’s made, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • To avoid a weepy meringue, spread it while the curd is still warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon meringue, tart, lemon dessert, meringue topping, classic tart