Lemon Tart

Lemon Tart: A Refreshing Delight for the Soul

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Here is a recipe that perfectly combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the subtle sweetness of cream, resulting in a lemon tart that will bring a smile to anyone who tastes it. This lemon tart recipe is ideal for warm days, as well as for special occasions, bringing a touch of freshness to your table.

A Brief History
The lemon tart has its roots in ancient culinary traditions, where combinations of tart fruits with sweet creams have always been appreciated. This recipe enjoys popularity due to its perfect balance between acidity and sweetness, being a dessert that has won hearts over time.

Necessary Ingredients

For the crust:
- 150 g flour
- 25 g sugar
- 125 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon cold water

For the cream:
- 150 ml liquid cream
- 100 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- Zest from 3 lemons
- 12 tablespoons lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

For decoration:
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar

Preparing the crust

1. Start by preparing the dough for the crust. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the sugar. Use a spatula or a fork to ensure that the sugar and flour combine well.

2. Add the butter cut into small cubes. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. This will help integrate the butter and give the crust a perfect consistency.

3. Finally, add the tablespoon of cold water. Gently knead the dough until it becomes smooth, but do not over-knead. Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a flaky crust, as it allows the gluten to rest.

4. After the time has passed, on a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you obtain a thin sheet, about 3-5 mm thick.

5. Place the dough in the tart pan (about 24 cm in diameter), ensuring that the edges are even. Use a fork to poke the base of the dough to prevent bubbles from forming during baking.

6. Put the tart back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes. This step will help maintain the shape of the tart when baked.

7. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once the dough has cooled sufficiently, remove it from the refrigerator, cover it with aluminum foil (or with beans to prevent rising), and bake for 15 minutes.

8. After 15 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and leave it in the oven for another 15 minutes until it turns golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

Preparing the cream

1. In a large bowl, whip the liquid cream with the sugar until it becomes fluffy and firm. This step is essential for achieving a light and airy texture.

2. Add the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Gently mix with a spatula, being careful not to lose volume. It is important that the lemon is fresh, as its aroma will enhance the flavor of the cream.

3. Once the crust has cooled, carefully pour the lemon cream over it. Ensure it is evenly distributed.

4. Put the tart back in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. The cream should set but remain slightly soft in the center. It is normal for the tart to puff up slightly during baking, but don’t worry; it will flatten as it cools.

5. Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool completely. This helps stabilize the cream and intensify the flavors.

Serving

For a perfect finish, decorate the tart with whipped cream and sprinkle powdered sugar on top. Serving this tart with a cup of green tea or freshly squeezed lemonade can transform the dessert into a memorable culinary experience.

Variations and Suggestions

If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with different flavors. For example, add a few fresh mint leaves to the lemon cream for a refreshing aroma. You can also use oranges or limes to slightly change the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I store the lemon tart?
The lemon tart stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap.

2. Can I use store-bought lemons?
Of course! But it is recommended to use fresh lemons for the best flavor.

3. How do I know if the cream is baked?
The cream should be slightly soft in the center but firm at the edges. It will firm up as it cools.

Nutritional Benefits
This lemon tart is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins. Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, helping to strengthen the immune system. The use of cream adds a dose of calcium, while the butter crust provides essential fats. However, it is good to know that the tart is a dessert, so enjoy it in moderation.

Calories
A serving of lemon tart contains approximately 320 calories, depending on the serving size and ingredients used. It is a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation.

In conclusion, the lemon tart is not just a dessert, but an experience that will transport you to a world of flavors and textures. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will surely become one of your favorites. I encourage you to try the recipe and share your impressions with us!