Lemon Tart

Posted on July 10, 2026

Delicious homemade lemon tart with a golden crust and lemon filling

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

Total time

Servings

why make this recipe

Lemon tart is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess. It’s refreshing, light, and has a zesty flavor that can brighten up any meal. Making a lemon tart is not only easy but also rewarding, as it appeals to both lemon lovers and those looking for a simple yet elegant dessert. Whether you serve it at a family gathering, a picnic, or a special occasion, this lemon tart will impress everyone with its bright taste and smooth texture.

Lemon Tart

how to make Lemon Tart

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
  • 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a tart pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then allow to cool.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 15 minutes.
  4. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread it over the lemon filling before serving.

how to serve Lemon Tart

Serve the lemon tart chilled for the best taste. You can cut it into slices and top each piece with extra whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of lemon zest for added decoration. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Lemon Tart

how to store Lemon Tart

Store leftovers in the refrigerator. Keep the lemon tart covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will last for up to three days in the fridge. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

Lemon Tart

tips to make Lemon Tart

  • Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
  • Make sure to let the tart cool completely before refrigerating to get the best set.
  • If you don’t have a tart pan, you can use a pie dish.

variation

You can try adding different flavors to the filling by incorporating a splash of raspberry or blueberry puree for a fruit twist, or replace some of the lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus taste.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a store-bought crust can save you time and still give great results.

How do I know when the filling is done baking?
The filling should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will set as it cools.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, this lemon tart can be made a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

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Lemon Tart

A delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, this lemon tart is refreshing, light, and zesty, impressing everyone with its bright taste and smooth texture.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the filling
  • 0.5 cups fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons) Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest
  • 4 large egg yolks
For the topping
  • 2/3 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a tart pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then allow to cool.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, sweetened condensed milk, lemon zest, and egg yolks until smooth.
  4. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 15 minutes.
  5. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Topping
  1. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  2. Spread it over the lemon filling before serving.

Notes

Serve the lemon tart chilled. You can cut it into slices and top with extra whipped cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of lemon zest for added decoration. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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