Delicious Lemon Tart

Ingredients

Dough

  • 200 grams (7 ounces) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 100 grams (3.5 ounces) cold unsalted butter
  • 100 grams (3.5 ounces) sour cream

Filling

  • 3 medium lemons
  • 200 grams (7 ounces) granulated sugar

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls

    Have a set of mixing bowls ready for combining your ingredients. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best as they're durable and easy to clean.

  • Pastry Blender

    Alternatively, use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles crumbs. A pastry blender speeds up this process.

  • Rolling Pin

    A good rolling pin is essential for rolling out your dough evenly. If you don't have one, a clean wine bottle can work in a pinch!

  • Baking Form

    Use a baking form or a pie dish to shape and bake your pastry. A non-stick or silicone form helps to prevent sticking, ensuring easy removal.

  • Blender or Food Processor

    A blender or food processor will help you get a smooth lemon filling easily. A hand blender can also do the trick if that's what you have on hand.

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder.
Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your hands until it resembles small crumbs.
Mix in the sour cream and gather the dough into an even ball.
Refrigerate the dough for about 40 minutes.

Step 2

Prepare the Filling

Soak the lemons in boiling water for 2-3 minutes.
Remove seeds and cut lemons into medium cubes.
Blend the lemon pieces with the sugar until smooth.

Step 3

Assemble and Bake

Divide the dough into two parts, one slightly larger than the other.
Roll out the larger portion and place it in the baking form.
Pour the lemon filling over the dough.
Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the filling, crimping the edges very thoroughly.
Bake for about 1 hour until golden.
Allow to cool slightly before cutting and serving.

Servings

So, you've baked your lemon pastry to perfection. Now, let's talk serving ideas that will make it the star of the table! 🌟

Fresh and Fancy: Serve your pastry with a dollop of whipped cream and a zest of lemon on top. This elegant touch adds a creamy texture and a bit of flair to your presentation.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream: Pair a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream against the warm, tangy pastry creates a mouth-watering contrast that guests will adore.

Perfect with Tea or Coffee: This pastry is phenomenal with a cup of hot tea or coffee. Not only does it complement the flavors, but it also makes for a cozy, comforting treat.

Brunch Delight: Include it in your brunch menu. This lemon pastry pairs wonderfully with an assortment of fresh fruits, cheese, and savories, making it a well-rounded and delightful choice for any spread.

Don't forget to garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that final aesthetic touch. Happy serving! πŸ‹βœ¨

Variations

Gluten-Free Version πŸƒ: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free. The rest of the steps remain the same, and you'll have a gluten-free lemon pastry that's just as delicious!

Vegan Version 🌱: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and replace the sour cream with a vegan alternative like coconut cream or a store-bought vegan sour cream. This way, you can enjoy a cruelty-free, delightful lemon treat without compromising on flavor or texture.

These variations ensure everyone can enjoy your delicious lemon pastry, no matter their dietary needs. Happy baking! πŸ‹

Faq

  • How do I know if my dough is properly chilled?

    Your dough is properly chilled when it feels firm to the touch but is still pliable enough to roll out without cracking.

  • Can I use margarine instead of butter?

    Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter. However, the texture and flavor may slightly differ.

  • Can I make the dough in advance?

    Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.

  • What if my lemon filling is too runny?

    Blending the lemon pieces with sugar thoroughly should result in a smooth filling. If it's too runny, cook it in a saucepan over low heat until it thickens slightly.

  • How can I prevent my pastry from sticking to the baking form?

    Ensure your baking form is well-greased or lined with parchment paper. This helps in easy removal and prevents sticking.

  • Is it better to use fresh or store-bought lemons for the filling?

    Fresh lemons are always better as they give the most vibrant flavor, but store-bought lemons can work in a pinch.

Nutrition facts

Delicious Lemon Tart
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Approximately 300 calories per serving
Calories (Min - Max):280 - 320
Total Fat:14g
Saturated Fat:8g
Protein:3g
Total Carbohydrate:38g
Total Sugars:22g