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Lemon Meringue Tart

Sliced Lemon Meringue Tart on a plate.

This classic lemon meringue tart is the perfect balance of tangy, zesty lemon curd, a buttery and flaky tart shell, and a light, airy meringue topping. A dessert steeped in tradition, it’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or enjoying a quiet weekend treat, this tart is sure to impress with its perfect blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tart Shell:

  • 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 12 tbsp ice water

For the Lemon Filling:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 3 large egg yolks (save the whites for the meringue)
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice (from about 34 lemons)
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter, cubed

For the Meringue:

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the Tart Shell:
    • In a bowl, mix flour and sugar. Add chilled butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to create a crumbly texture.
    • Add the egg yolk and 1 tbsp of ice water. Mix until dough forms a ball. Add another tbsp of water if needed.
    • Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
    • Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness. Place in a 9-inch tart pan and trim excess edges.
    • Chill the dough for 15 minutes in the fridge.
    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the tart shell with parchment paper and fill with pie weights.
    • Blind bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights and parchment, then bake for another 5–7 minutes until golden. Let cool.
  • Make the Lemon Filling:
    • In a saucepan, whisk eggs, egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and zest. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes, or 170°F/77°C).
    • Remove from heat and stir in butter until smooth.
    • Strain the filling through a fine sieve into the cooled tart shell. Spread evenly.
  • Prepare the Meringue:
    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, 1 tbsp at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Add vanilla extract and mix briefly.
  • Assemble the Tart:
    • Spoon or pipe the meringue over the lemon filling, ensuring it touches the edges to seal. Create peaks or swirls with a spoon.
    • Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned.
  • Cool and Serve:
    • Let the tart cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

  • For a more stable meringue, consider using the Italian method by pouring hot sugar syrup into the whipped egg whites.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator, loosely covered, for up to 2 days.
  • Experiment with lime or grapefruit juice for a fun twist on the traditional recipe.

Keywords: Lemon Meringue Tart