How to make Mini Lemon Tarts: Easy Dessert Idea

Learn how to make mini lemon tarts with only six ingredients. A fun and delicious dessert with a sweet and sour twist.

More Lemon desserts to try: Strawberry Lemonade Cookies, Raspberry Lemon Cupcakes, and Lemon Cranberry Amish Friendship Bread.

Mini lemon tarts are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the bright, zesty flavor of lemons packed into a sweet, bite-sized treat. These tarts combine the tanginess of fresh lemon juice with the creamy richness of sour cream, all nestled in crisp, pre-made tart shells. They are quick and easy to make, taking just 20 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes to bake, making them ideal for gatherings, holidays, or even a casual afternoon snack. If you’re a fan of citrus desserts, these mini lemon tarts will quickly become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First, these mini lemon tarts are incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. The tart shells come pre-made, so you won’t have to worry about fussing with homemade dough. The filling combines fresh lemon juice, eggs, sugar, and sour cream, creating a creamy, tangy blend that bakes to perfection. With just 20 minutes of prep time, these tarts can be whipped up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute events or whenever you’re in the mood for a quick, citrusy treat.

Additionally, these mini lemon tarts are versatile and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a sweet addition to a picnic, these tarts will shine. The individual portions are easy to serve, and the bright lemon flavor pairs wonderfully with any meal. Plus, they’re great for any time of year—refreshing in the summer but also a wonderful citrus contrast to the richness of holiday meals in the winter.

Ingredients for Mini Lemon Tarts

To make these easy mini lemon tarts, you’ll need the following ingredients from the grocery store before starting:

• 36 individual pre-made tart crusts
• ½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 eggs
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• Additional lemon zest for garnish

How to Make Mini Lemon Tarts

Here’s how to prepare your mini lemon tarts from start to finish with easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat the oven.

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the 36 pre-made tart shells on the sheet.

Step 2: Prepare the filling.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, eggs, and sour cream. Continue to whisk until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Fill the tart shells.

Transfer the lemon filling to a measuring cup or container with a spout to make pouring easier. Carefully fill each tart shell, ensuring the filling reaches just below the top edge to avoid overflow.

Step 4: Bake the tarts.

Place the baking sheet with the filled tart shells in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until the filling is set and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them to ensure the tops don’t brown too much.

Step 5: Cool and garnish.

Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, sprinkle additional lemon zest on top for a burst of color and extra citrus flavor.

Where to Take or Use This Recipe

Mini lemon tarts are perfect for a wide range of events and gatherings. Their size makes them great for serving at parties or potlucks where guests can easily grab one or two without needing plates or utensils. Here are some specific occasions where these tarts would shine:

1. Holiday gatherings: Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or a summer BBQ, mini lemon tarts bring a refreshing citrus bite that pairs well with any meal.
2. Afternoon tea or brunch: These bite-sized treats are ideal for a sophisticated afternoon tea or brunch spread, offering just the right amount of sweetness.
3. Picnics and outdoor parties: Their small size and easy portability make mini lemon tarts a great choice for picnics or casual outdoor events.
4. Bridal Showers or Baby Showers: Mini desserts are a hit for showers. You can pair them with other mini desserts for a whole dessert spread.

Variations on the Mini Lemon Tarts Recipe

There are many ways you can put your own twist on these mini lemon tarts, depending on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to change up the recipe:

1. Make them gluten-free: If you need a gluten-free option, you can easily find pre-made gluten-free tart shells or make your own using gluten-free flour. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.
2. Add a berry topping: For an added burst of flavor and color, top each tart with a fresh raspberry or blueberry. The sweetness of the berries complements the tartness of the lemon perfectly.
3. Use lime or orange: If you want to switch up the citrus flavor, substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a tangy twist on the classic lemon tart.
4. Dairy-free alternative: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, swap out the sour cream for a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream. This will maintain the creamy texture while accommodating dairy restrictions.

Can These Mini Lemon Tarts Be Stored or Made Ahead?

Yes, mini lemon tarts can be stored and even made ahead, making them a convenient dessert for busy schedules or event planning. Once baked and cooled, the tarts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them perfect for preparing a day or two before a gathering or party.

If you want to make the tarts ahead, you can prepare the filling and refrigerate it separately from the tart shells. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill the tart shells with the prepared filling and bake as directed. This allows you to serve freshly baked tarts without all the prep work on the day of your event.

Common Questions About Mini Lemon Tarts

1. Can I freeze mini lemon tarts?

Yes, you can freeze mini lemon tarts for up to 1 month. To freeze, place the cooled tarts in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

2. Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of making the filling?

Yes, if you’re short on time or prefer a shortcut, you can use store-bought lemon curd. Simply spoon the curd into the tart shells and bake for a slightly shorter time, around 15 minutes, until the curd is just set.

3. Can I make these tarts without eggs?

If you’re looking to make egg-free mini lemon tarts, you can experiment with an egg substitute like cornstarch or a commercial egg replacer. The texture may vary slightly, but the tarts will still have that tangy lemon flavor.

4. How do I know when the tarts are done baking?

The filling should be set and firm to the touch, with a slight jiggle in the center. If the tops start to brown too much, you can cover them with foil for the remaining bake time.

Conclusion

Mini lemon tarts are an easy, delightful dessert that will brighten up any occasion with their zesty flavor and bite-sized charm. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday gathering, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, they are sure to be a hit. Their ease of preparation, along with the many ways to customize the recipe, makes them a go-to dessert for any citrus lover.

Try this recipe out for your next gathering or treat yourself to a batch at home. Don’t forget to share your mini lemon tarts with friends and family, and feel free to experiment with the variations suggested. If you loved this recipe, be sure to bookmark our site and check out more delicious dessert ideas!

More delicious fruity desserts:

• Peach Crisp
• Heaven on Earth Cake
• Cherry Pie Cookies

Please pin this post for later and follow along on Pinterest: